It is impossible to summarize in a paragraph or just a few words how much the kindness of Brenda meant to D and his family. During his eight days in the hospital, Brenda met each challenge with a positive attitude. She always had a smile and a pat on the back to give D. She explained procedures in "patient-friendly language". The machine for CRRT could have been rather scary to the patient and his family if it were not for Brenda's explanation and reassurance.
While keeping both D and his family updated on progress, she did extra things like giving him a shave and washing his hair which definitely made him feel better. She knew his daughter was flying in from Florida and he expressed he wanted to look good for her - again, she made sure he was groomed, had a clean gown, and fresh linens. Yet another example of excellent nursing care was when a pile of blankets did not keep him warm during dialysis and restricted his movement, she took the extra steps to get a forced-air blanket for him.
What we experienced and observed, was that Brenda is 100% committed to patient care and at all times, professional, yet at the same time she made a connection with both the patient and his family. When one thing did not work to comfort D, she tried something else and did not quit until he was content and the problem resolved. In a positive manner, she brought humor to the patient and his family. She eased the stress and made long difficult days more pleasant. Even at the end of a long day, she was positive, enthusiastic, took time to offer comfort, and bring a smile to D's face.
Brenda is highly skilled, knowledgeable, sensitive, and compassionate. She demonstrates the true meaning of commitment to patient/family care. We cannot begin to thank not only Brenda but all the nurses, staff, and doctors for the extraordinary care and support our loved one received while in MICU at Cox South.