I was admitted to ARMC through the ER. I was later diagnosed with a bowel blockage, accompanied by mouth pain and severe nausea and eventually requiring an NG tube and surgery. I was pleased with my care during the eleven day stay, however, one nurse in particular truly stands out and is most memorable.
My connectedness with Candace developed quite rapidly. Although I was only with her for two shifts, she consistently reflected a quiet calm, self-confidence, proficiency, compassion and caring that readily flowed to me. She was so attentive to me I began to feel a little bit guilty that her other patients may not be getting the same attention, obviously, this is exaggerated on my part and certainly not the case. She made me feel special as though I may have been on the Cone Health Board of Directors, not the old guy with the heavy gray beard and NG tube.
Walking was important to me and she offered to accompany me several times but I did not want to utilize valuable time for that activity. At the beginning of each shift, she would check my condition, pain level, nausea, etc., asking if there was anything I needed, she was so sincere. She reviewed the medication and schedule. I was impressed with her ability to intensely listen and communicate. She would check in with me regularly just to see how I was doing and if she could do anything for me. Being in a medically distressed situation this was important to me, plus I had every confidence in her, her nursing and technology knowledge, her skill and ability were consistently reflected in her performance.
When I did request pain medicine for example or call to silence an IV alarm, it's like she was waiting outside the door, as she was very responsive. She was also very in tune with my condition and anticipated my needs. Having had nothing by mouth for eight days the thing I looked forward to the most was ice chips. This was a humbling experience but knowing I had her caring for me and knowing she would go the extra mile was reassuring.
She was exemplary in every way a model employee. I think she goes out of her way every day to make a difference in the care and comfort of her patients. Regarding patients care and interaction in a sense, each nurse is a direct representative of the Cone Health CEO and Nursing Director, etc. The staff and largely the nurses' performance become the success or shortcomings of Cone Health. You can rest assured that this nurse is giving an A+ and placing Cone Health in a very positive light. Candace is a true DAISY Nurse.