When I entered the hospital unexpectedly for a heart ablation, I anticipated being home a few days later. I certainly did not expect to wake up in the CICU because of surgery complications, and then have another surgical procedure a week later. I was in pain, confused, angry, and helpless. The nurses had their work cut out for them.
The professionalism I witnessed was balanced with caring ('is there anything else I can do/get for you?'). My loss of dignity, which is so often the case as a helpless patient was countered with a knock on the door each time a nurse entered, along with referring to me as Mrs. M, at all times. They gave me privacy when I needed it, ginger ale, protein drinks, a cup of coffee all offered to me when stomach issues and a loss of appetite presented itself. When a nurse had a few minutes, he/she would talk to me about my life and tell me things about themselves. Washing me up, anticipating when I needed new linens and nightgowns, even helping me to wash my hair.... it all helped me feel more normal during a very long 2 weeks.
Every time a "new nurse" would be assigned to me, I would think "Oh no, now I have to break him/her in again"...it was never the case. Each nurse brought his/her unique skill along and I kept thinking "Where have they found these wonderful people"? Their attitude was always positive, they were smiling even in the middle of the night, and I could tell they like their job. When I needed to leave the unit for a procedure, a nurse always accompanied me, explaining what was happening and offering assurances. Their presence at these times was so much more important than they could ever know.
My husband was in the CICU a lot... the nurses were just as wonderful with him. They anticipated his physical needs along with making him feel comfortable on the unit, giving him medical updates and answering his many questions.
Thank you to my nurses for helping me on a difficult medical journey.