Anna is one of those nurses who leads by example and exemplifies who a nurse truly is. She goes beyond the call of duty. She does many little things that a lot of nurses wouldn't think to do for her patients. For example, she had a patient that was getting transferred to another hospital. The husband was worried that he couldn't pay for parking at both facilities. Anna told him not to worry, she would get him the money. So, when Anna got off work she went to the ATM and withdrew some money. She drove across town to the other hospital and gave the husband enough money to pay for parking for several days. He was so overwhelmed and grateful. Another patient diagnosed with cancer had been going through treatment. He was very depressed. Anna took the time to sit with him and talk about his problems and life. They talked about faith and hope I talked with the patient another time he was here asking about Anna. He told me, "Every time I drive by Good Samaritan Hospital, I smile and thanks God for his angel Anna. She helped me keep my faith I was losing." This changed his personal experience of our hospital to a positive.
Anna is so compassionate and caring. Another patient had an abusive boyfriend calling her and upsetting her. Anna told her about being a ZYMO patient. The patient asked Anna if she was still going to be her nurse. Anna told her she would be if she stayed on this unit. The patient said, "I don't want another nurse, I am staying here." Anna explained that she could turn the phone ringer off and still can call out. This made the patient less anxious and she felt better. I feel so grateful to work with Anna. She puts a smile on everyone's face. Anna's compassion and kindness outshines the stars and makes a true difference in patient experiences.