August 2015
Emily
Battin
,
RN
Womens Health Postpartum
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital
Norfolk
,
VA
United States
My family and I would like to nominate Nurse Emily Battin for the DAISY Award for her exceptional care during my stay at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in the Postpartum Unit of the Labor and Delivery Department. Emily was assigned to care for me on the evening of June 5th, while I was recovering from an emergency cesarean surgery at 33 weeks gestation with twins. She then requested to be assigned to care for me the following two evenings (June 6th and June 7th) to ensure that I have continuity in my nursing support. Throughout each evening, Emily took the time to talk and personally connect with me, which helped me build trust and confidence. She was not only patient and empathetic, but she also made my stay easier and allowed me to feel more in control by writing and updating my medicine schedule on the white board. Emily gave great emotional support, offering hugs when needed and even helping me get some fresh air outside one evening when I had a panic attack. Each morning, Emily briefed the day nurses in the room with me to facilitate good passing of information. She also advocated for me and assisted in communicating my concerns, symptoms, and medical details with other medical professionals. Emily was a big help in my recovery through coordination of physical therapy and lactation support, and connecting me to the Special Care Nursery (where my twins were being cared for) including delivering breast milk. Even though it was difficult to find on a weekend evening, Emily was able to obtain a walker for me. When I was ready, she assisted me in gaining mobility and independence by helping me to practice using the walker, without pressing me beyond my limits. In addition to her support of me, Emily was also very helpful to my family. They were comforted by knowing I was under her care because Emily kept them well-informed of my challenges and progress. Emily's cheerful patience, understanding, knowledge, and willingness to answer questions thoughtfully makes her one of the best nurses ever!