My husband and I were going on 36 hours of no sleep after an emotionally and physically taxing labor. We had just welcomed our new baby boy into the family a few hours earlier and had been introduced to several nursing staff as it was at the end of one shift and the beginning of the next. I remember feeling so physically exhausted and overwhelmed by emotions. I was told that I needed to call for help if I needed to get out of bed for any reason. I knew that it was shift change and of course that is exactly when I needed to use the restroom. I patiently waited for my new nursing staff to come to my room. Finally, I decided to call the number they left for me and was greeted on the other end by Connie. Never did her voice seem aggravated or annoyed that I was calling right at the change of shift. She was there within minutes with Dina the CAN and a device that would help me get to the bathroom since I had a numb leg still.
Both Connie and Dina had a gentle touch and ensured that I would be safe in their hands. This was the first moment that I was able to relax knowing that my family was under their care and I trusted them 100%. Connie explained how to properly use the bathroom after a delivery and helped to explain the various medications that were available for pain relief. She listened to my concerns and addressed each of them to her fullest ability.
My biggest concern that I was really worried about was that my baby had an irregular heart beat prior to delivery and it remained present after delivery. Connie listened to my concern about this and did a full head to toe assessment on my baby even though the nurse prior to her just did it. She reassured me that everything was going to be ok and was able to get the pediatrician to come and assess our baby right away. Connie stopped in the next night as well, even though she wasn't our nurse, and informed us that she was able to access our baby's heartbeat again and that the irregular beat was gone. She wanted to make sure we were doing better knowing how worried I was the night before.
Connie showed not only me but my family empathy and compassion during out stay. She ensured that my family received the best care possible. She never assumed I knew information just because I too am a nurse. She taught me everything I needed to know in order to take care of myself and the new baby. Connie is the night shift nurse that every patient dreams about. She is an advocate for her patients and takes the extra time out of her day to ensure her patients are satisfied with the care she's providing.
I will never forget the way Connie made me feel. My family cannot thank her enough for all she has done.