Edna is one of the most experienced and compassionate nurses we have on CMICU. She is recognized daily by her patients and family members. There are a few instances that really stick out to me. We had a young male in liver failure on the unit for several weeks. His family was at his bedside constantly and Edna bonded with them. The patient was confused due to encephalopathy and Edna would spend hours trying to get him to communicate with his family. It was his wife's birthday so Edna purchased a necklace for the patient to give to his wife. The wife was very surprised and grateful. The patient received a liver transplant weeks later and would come back to the unit to visit Edna. Edna also keeps in touch with the family and gets together for lunch outings.
Another instance that stands out to me is an anniversary celebration Edna organized. We had a patient who was on the unit for a long time and was celebrating an anniversary. Edna decorated our conference room and had flowers, table cloths, and food for the patient and his spouse. She brought the patient to the conference room so they could spend more time together and celebrate.
It is not only significant acts like the ones mentioned above but the daily compassion and empathy Edna shows that is recognized from making sure the patient has their own mini trash can taped to the bedside to having them primped and up in the chair. Without fail, Edna makes sure she is doing her best for her patients. There are many times I hear of patient stories and say, "I bet Edna was the nurse," just by the way the events are described. She is a nurse of detail and rules but is always putting patient safety first while allowing for a spectacular experience.