Andrea is a very professional, compassionate nurse. Upon my arrival at the 4D unit, Andrea stopped in, introduced herself and asked if I needed anything.
The entire team did an awesome job of caring for me and ensuring my comfort during my stay.
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Selfless health care workers caring with concern and compassion is the strength and hallmark of this profession. It is with utmost thankfulness that I write this note to acknowledge the "above and beyond" care provided by Ms. Andrea just not to me as a patient, but also to my son who spent every single night and day at the hospital to provide me with encouragement and moral support.
When Andrea was on duty, I did not have to call for assistance even once. She was there. I was amazed at how she studied the situation and even without being asked, she moved swiftly to address those to enhance the quality of care and stay.
To cite a few specific examples:
One day when Ms. Andrea walked in, she must have noticed two chairs placed rather unusually and was wondering why that was. I told her that my son has been staying overnight with me and was sleeping in the chair (and reasoned why he was staying with me - he lost his mom 6-months ago and she was treated unsuccessfully despite good efforts by the staff at SGH). The next moment, Nurse Andrea arranged for a recliner, brought a pillow and sheet to make his stay be comfortable. We were very moved by her thoughtful gesture and appreciated the gesture. Now, this is a great example of how patient care embraces the family as well.
I was admitted with severe sepsis and in a semi-private room. On the third day of my admission, a much younger looking patient was moved to the adjoining bed. Those few days I couldn't sleep well as unfortunately the fellow patient had the lights up late or was playing music and causing a few other inconveniences, albeit minor. Ms. Andrea very likely read the situation and came by and said that I would be moved to a private room. Finally, I got to rest well after getting a good night's sleep.
These are just a few instances where Ms. Andrea shone like a star and yet went by carrying her duty with diligence. While I could infinitely list all of her impressive work, Ms. Andrea by her thoughtfulness, decision making, and prompt actions has proven her hiring managers proud!
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Andrea was a blessing from above! She went above and beyond her duties. She made sure we understood all "procedures" and vital information. She became a friend in a day - just knowing she was there for our best interests.
She had a recliner in our room by the time my husband was back from the OR after she saw my son was sleeping on two chairs. She comforted me when she saw I was emotional about the procedure. She made sure we had drinks and food if needed.
Andrea Thomas, in our opinion, was an EXTRAORDINARY NURSE!!