I was admitted from the ED for an "external suture revision" from my Lumbar Fusion surgery. From the moment I was rolled into the room, Heather made me feel as if I was her only patient. She greeted me as I was getting into bed, and as someone who has been a patient multiple times, I can honestly say this was a first. Heather truly cared about my pain control, making sure my orders were in the computer, and ensuring that I had everything I needed. She was meticulous in regards to everything I had in the room, especially myself and even my husband's comfort and well-being.
Once she made sure that I was comfortable, my orders were in the computer, and that I knew the plan of care, she told me when she would be back to check on me. As promised, she returned and brought my pain medication and other needed supplies. Up until the second that I was transported to Pre-Op, she was on top of everything.
Luckily for me, when I returned from surgery, Heather was still there. She advocated for me to stay the night when the plan was for me to be discharged. I was not comfortable going home that evening, not having eaten anything, and unsure my pain would be under control, and, as an excellent nurse, she validated my feelings. She advocated for me, called the hospitalist, and ensured I was able to stay that night.
Thank goodness Heather advocated for me, as I was in more pain than I expected, and would have been miserable at home had she not made sure I stayed the night. The next morning, I couldn't have been happier to see her enter my room, as I knew I was again in great hands! Through the morning, she took great care of me! I could hear from outside surroundings that she was extremely busy, but I never got that feeling from her when she was in my room. She always entered my room with that light, and excitement, that someone who is proud of and loves her job does.
When it came time for my discharge, Heather couldn't have been more helpful! She ensured I was going home, and comfortable with the fact that I was, with any and all supplies that would help me cover my wound without causing any additional irritation. She knew me and my situation well enough to know that I was readmitted because I was allergic to the internal sutures placed during my fusion. During my discharge, she wanted to do her best to make sure I wasn't going to go home and have another allergic reaction to the bandages used to cover my new incision.
She connected with me during my short stay. She faxed my prescriptions to the pharmacy to avoid a long wait and even walked me to the elevator. My husband and my children were more than impressed with her level of care.
Heather deserves the DAISY Award. She is a nurse who cares.