As the parent of a severely disabled son, I have spent a great deal of time over the past 37 years with him in the hospital. Most of that time has been at Hershey Medical Center, where he has gotten excellent care from many healthcare professionals. D cannot talk, has spastic quadriplegia, is cortically blind, has a seizure disorder, is fed by a gastrostomy tube, and has requirements for different types of positioning to avoid aspiration. He can be a daunting challenge for anyone, particularly those not familiar with him. Because of his situation, if D is admitted to the hospital, I stay with him the whole time to serve as his interpreter and to assist as needed. This gives me the opportunity to see the nurses in action over their entire shifts.

D was hospitalized with COVID for ten days. The fifth day was especially stressful, and the night shift had begun, which is the time when his condition often deteriorates. We were introduced to Dianah, and she immediately brought a sense of friendly competence that was much appreciated. Then soon after her arrival D was due for his seizure medication. Unfortunately, it was not available, a situation that is not uncommon due to its requiring special storage and being needed after regular pharmacy hours. I was very concerned, as timing is critical, and I did not want him to have a seizure to complicate things. Dianah not only took charge to immediately call the pharmacy to explain the urgency but she also requested the early morning dose so that there would not be an issue the following evening. I was extremely grateful for her initiative.

I was also impressed with her impeccable timing in D's care. He needs to be turned side to side every 2 hours to avoid pressure sores and elevated to prevent aspiration. Despite her many other obligations, Dianah came promptly to turn him and ensure that he was correctly positioned.

In addition, Dianah informed me of daily medication for acid reflux routinely given to patients that he had been given during this stay and of which I had not been aware. She educated me about its use and said that it is optional. D does not have an issue with acid reflux and I prefer that he gets only necessary medications. I was grateful that she told me and will be discussing this with D's PCP to see if this medication would be recommended for him in the future.

It was obvious from Dianah's behavior and the comments she made in our general conversation that she loves her job. It was also heartwarming to hear that she continues to see a child with disabilities whom she has treated in home health because of the special bond between them. This speaks volumes about why she is a nurse. For all these reasons, I feel that Dianah Kisekka is a credit to her profession.