Aside from all of the exciting and happy things to anticipate with the arrival of my little one, I also spent many sleepless nights worried about when labor would begin, how painful it would be, and if I could handle all that would come with it. I had done all that I could to prepare for the unknown by packing my hospital bag, making to-do lists, and practicing breathing strategies. However when my contractions became strong enough to say to my husband, "let's head to the hospital!" there was one thing I was not prepared for, it was being assigned to Austin Arsenault as our Labor and Delivery Nurse.
From the moment he met us in the waiting room, to when he wheeled my newborn and me to the postpartum unit, Austin's level of professionalism was superb! Not only does Austin already defy traditional expectations of a Nurse by being the only male nurse to work in Labor and Delivery department at Rex Healthcare, but he also goes above and beyond with his impeccable patient care. During one of the most stressful events of my life, Austin's demeanor was calming, attentive, and caring. He informed me of each step throughout the labor and delivery process, was respectful of all of my personal preferences for lighting, music, and pain management, and never left our room for more than a few brief moments at a time. He monitored my and my baby's vitals carefully and communicated with me each time anything new or different occurred. When it was time to begin pushing, Austin was prepared and ready to coach me through the process until the doctor arrived.
When I asked Austin how long he had been a nurse, I was shocked to find out that he was fairly new in his career and had already possessed the most commendable qualities of a nurse that could take years to develop! There was no point during my entire experience with Austin that I did not have complete peace of mind that my medical care was in great hands. Austin treated me with respect, dignity, and gentleness, during an extremely vulnerable time for me. Austin has made a very meaningful difference to me, which I will never forget!