Emma Sauder
February 2023
Emma
Sauder
,
RN
Adult Cardiac ICU
OSF Saint Francis Medical Center
Peoria
,
IL
United States

 

 

 

These are the moments where a nurse's care and expertise go beyond caring just for the body and touches a patient's soul.
My mother was in ICU following a massive heart attack and the placement of 2 stents. That night around 10:30 pm she had a vasovagal event. Thankfully our nurse was in the room with her and called for additional help. This was very scary for me as Mom's eyes were glazed over and her body went stiff for a moment. A handful of help came right away including the doctor who introduced himself and asked me and my sister's names. Each person started doing something to assist in her care, but no one asked us to leave or move. I can't express enough how important it was for me and my sister to be there at Mom's head. She was in a great deal of pain and got so hot. At my request, this particular nurse brought washcloths that we could put on Mom's face and sponges so that we could give her water. We knew what would ease her suffering and calm her. I'm thankful we were there to do that. Once Mom's pressure was coming back up, we were able to speak with this nurse. She was so friendly, and we came to realize her grandma and my mom were dear longtime friends. Before we knew it, Mom was singing a song that the two of them used to sing together. These are the moments where a nurse's care and expertise go beyond caring just for the body and touches a patient's soul. These are the moments that bring a calming trust to the patient and family. Thank you to this amazing, sweet nurse for caring so much.