Gina Cantalupo
September 2017
Gina
Cantalupo
,
RN
Inpatient Critical Care Unit
Billings Clinic
Billings
,
MT
United States

 

 

 

Recently I woke up in ICU to the sound of Gina discussing my care with a doctor. I thought she must be a tough nurse to talk to a surgeon, let alone a neurosurgeon like that. In a few days, we have learned that she wasn't a seasoned nurse, but a remarkable young nurse. I believe that nurses must graduate with a strong sense of being aware of patients' medical needs, but some things can't be taught in the classroom, such as personal touch and attention to every shift. I have a long list of medical issues and medications. It was important that she took the time to talk and listen to us so we could keep my medications on the same schedule asat home. One time, Gina heard another employee having problems with the computer, while working with me she patiently explained the steps, without losing track of what she was doing with me. We both felt like we were getting her full attention and I am sure that she was in complete control of both situations. Gina has a knack for communicating with patients and their families. At the end of her shift with me, she talked about each one by name. This is another example of her personal touch that makes the patient more comfortable and speedsup recovery. If the need arises again, I hope Gina is my nurse again.