On a daily basis, Cindy can be seen showing compassion towards patients and their families. She takes the time to sit down and speak with patients and explain the next level of care. She involves family members from the time of admission until they are discharged and even provides her contact information if the patient or family member has questions once they are at home. She has earned the trust and respect of her colleagues, as well as, physicians. She shows collaboration and a commitment to working together as a team. Admirable attributes this nurse has are loyalty to her patients and colleagues, compassion, and dedication.
When I reflect on this nurse and her ability to provide excellent care for our patients, I am often reminded that she has a true love for the patient and nursing profession. Recently, there was an inpatient who had been here for 18 days. This patient's admitting diagnosis was tardive dyskinesia. This disease affects the nervous system and while it can't be cured, treatment can help. However, the medication used to treat this disease is expensive and is not a drug we carry in our pharmacy. The admitting physician allowed the patient to take her home medication while she was in the hospital. Cindy realized the patient only had 1 pill left and she wasn't going to be discharged for several more days. She confirmed that the refill medication had indeed been delivered to the patient's home, and without thinking twice she drove 102 miles round trip to pick it up. Given the distance and time of day, it took her a total of 3 hours to get this done! Knowing how detrimental this disease can be and what could have occurred without her having the medication, we are so thankful for this nurse. The patient was so appreciative and so relieved to be able to continue treatment.
This is just one example of how Cindy lives our mission and exceeds expectations every day. I am truly humbled and honored to work with someone who shows compassion and empathy for our patients.