I apologize for not entering separate entries for each nurse, as they all deserve their own. However, as with any effective system, these nurses functioned in a way that exemplified a continuum of care and it would be difficult to refrain from repeating myself.
My father entered the ED in significant distress and given his complicated medical history, his fate was undeniably questionable. The ED team of nurses not only fulfilled their medical obligations, but they were also exceptional in their personal care of my father, and my family. I understand that what is routine for a professional can desensitize them to the trauma experienced by others. It takes a professional commitment to remember that dichotomy and engage with compassion. The team was casual, relaxed, engaging and encouraging, without minimizing the situation or dismissing the significance of the situation. While medical care is what comes first in an emergency department, patients and families need contact and comfort from one another whenever possible. They not only allowed this, but they also supported it. As a close-knit family, this was so important to all of us.
Julie Delaney was not working that evening but was there as a member of our family. She did so much to support us, from translating the medical information, to serving as the hospitality representative of RRMC! She attended to our personal needs, freeing up the working nurses from our requests, and still maintained an eye of the medical information. Julie's delicate balance of being a family member and an RRMC employee was remarkable. She represented RRMC with dignity in a time that could have afforded her a compromised response.
My father transferred to ICU and was fortunate in his experience. While he has received wonderful care from many nurses, doctors, LNAs, and respiratory therapists there are two nurses who stand out. Barb entered with a no-nonsense approach and a soft touch. She was consistent in her care, patient with my father's challenges and supportive of our continued presence in the room. She shared personal stories with him, making him, and us, feel like he was more than just another patient. When a person is fighting to survive, and their loved ones are feeling helpless, humanity goes a long way. I appreciate her compassion and her steadfast commitment to her practice.
Pam was equally incredible. Another no-nonsense nurse, she made us feel like she was the family member we had in ICU. She said hello and goodbye to us by name! She agreed to get washcloths, put food in the refrigerator, anything that we asked of her that was likely not in her job description. She made us laugh, gained my father's confidence, and ours. I want her to know how important the little things are, although it feels like she already knows. I want her to be recognized for it. It means so much to those of us who are truly dependent upon others for something so important. Please share my sincere gratitude to the amazing professionals who have touched our lives in a way that we could not have expected. I truly hope that you honor each one of them as they have represented Rutland Regional Medical Center with remarkable professionalism, dignity, and grace.