My mom is no stranger to hospitals. In her late 60's with a history of multiple strokes, pacemaker, diabetes, etc., we have spent our fair share of time in hospitals. As a registered nurse myself, I appreciate BOTH sides of the bedside and the challenges it presents. Conveying compassion and empathy while executing science and speed is a tall order.
Healthcare is a fast-paced industry and there's a natural tendency to fly through procedures and prep. Although not intended, often patients feel the rushed energy, and it can often be interpreted as a lack of care and empathy. There are unfortunately times where that well-intended hustle can result in important details being overlooked too.
With my mother's complex history, sadly we have experienced that side and it has even resulted in preventable catastrophic consequences for her.
It was so REFRESHING & REASSURING to experience the best of Dignity Health today. My mother's entire care team was wonderful. Her pre-op nurse, Barb, shines the brightest. Her patience and thoroughness - even for a routine procedure was deeply touching. Somehow documentation of my mother's pacemaker was missing from her chart. Because of the time, questions, and attentive listening, she was able to obtain and document that critical information. My mother is also an infamously hard stick for IVs. I cannot recall the last time they got it on the first try, much less without ultrasound! That was magical that Barb did it today!
Barb took the time to Listen and Look, from taking history to starting her IV. I'm grateful in the hustle of tight OR schedules and billable time to see Dignity values people and safety above all. I felt at peace and complete trust leaving my mother with Barb as her advocate. She embodies both the art and science of nursing and will go down as one of the best nurses to care for my mother.