I recently underwent two separate eye surgeries at LMC Peabody. As is common with many people, I am always extremely leery of anything involving my eyes. Needless to say, the thought of being awake while the surgeon worked left me more than a bit nervous. Coupled with the mandate to stay still for an extended period while he worked, it would be fair to say that my brain knew it was time to get this done, and although I know my surgeon and the OR team were truly excellent, emotionally, I just wanted to run the other way.
Because I knew Arlene as a colleague, I turned to her for expertise and a little emotional support. As always, Arlene went above and beyond in assuaging my anxiety. She answered detailed questions about what to expect, making sure that I was more than prepared for the surgery. Although I probably asked the same questions ten different ways, she was always patient.
On the day of the first surgery, she sat with me as I was prepped, acting as my advocate, reassuring me and my husband (who refers to her as "Arlene the Angel") and bolstering my confidence in the wonderful team of caregivers. She checked on me after the first surgery, and made sure that I was equally comfortable with the second. Arlene went out of her way to ensure that my patient experience was optimal, and I cannot imagine her doing less for any patient.
Arlene is astute, knowledgeable and calm, just what is called for in a surgical setting. Indeed, Arlene is an exemplar of all that is right in the nursing profession, and it is my wholehearted recommendation that she receive the DAISY Award.