Austin Banaszak, BSN, RN, CCRN

A few months ago was my first time coming to this Emergency Department. I had driven just over an hour to get seen for some flank pain I’ve been having. After being brought to my room in the ER, Austin came in and introduced himself very professionally and, more importantly, very empathetically.

He explained everything he was doing, the test that would be run, any medications being ordered, and asked me about my pain. We talked about his many cats and how we grew up here. It helped take my mind off my immediate concern. I never told him that I was a trauma ICU RN because I didn’t want any special treatment. I wanted to be treated fairly, but instead I feel lucky and blessed because I was treated so specially, with respect, empathy, and consideration.

He asked me if I knew where the pharmacy was and kindly walked me over to it. I am so amazed by the staff; even the Emergency Department MD was kind, patient, and thorough. He tried to find answers for my pain and collaborated with me to figure out a plan. What wonderful care I experienced here.

Thank you, Austin, my amazing nurse!