My husband was a patient at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital after being admitted with a blood hemoglobin level of 6.5 - later diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. I would like to thank all the Unit 41 nurses and staff for the wonderful care they provided. I am sending this letter with a special commendation for Carol Tunk, RN. We were most fortunate to have her as my husband's nurse during his inpatient stay. We became aware of his medical condition quite suddenly by accident through a routine diabetic blood test, finally leading to his receiving two units of blood to bring his hemoglobin level back up out of the danger range. As you can imagine, I was quite concerned. Carol not only accommodated our physical needs but worked to put me at ease and provide peace of mind as well.
I am most grateful to Carol for also dealing so expertly with my husband's diabetic condition, helping to keep his blood levels in line, which is no easy task during a hospital stay. She worked to keep me informed of events occurring during my absence from my husband's bedside, and she went the extra mile to research and provide additional information regarding his condition. Her level of enthusiasm and compassionate care did not diminish over the whole time my husband was under her care.
Prior to my becoming eligible for retirement, my last tenure was with The Joint Commission. While not involved with the creation of standards, it provided a unique perspective of some of the challenges and accomplishments of the health care industry as well as the tremendous responsibility faced each day in pursuing patient safety. I understand your hospital is a recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and continues to strive for excellence. From our experience with Carol Tunk, she is one of your best assets to assist you in achieving your goal. It is gratifying to see that Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital has a nurse of Carol's caliber who is dedicated to delivering the high quality of care that your hospital strives to provide, showing consideration for the patient and family as well. I'm thankful for the Lord's guidance and care throughout my husband's stay; which I am most grateful that your hospital espouses, and that He was able to utilize your facilities and dedicated staff in accomplishing a good outcome. Our Heartfelt thanks to Carol."