Jennifer L McGinnis, RN

My father was undergoing Cochlear Implant Surgery, which was categorized as Same Day Surgery. Everything went well during the surgery; however, recovery presented some complications. He struggled with waking up, staying awake, and regaining stability. Additionally, he was unable to empty his bladder, so he received a straight catheter to assist with that. Afterward, he seemed to feel a little better, prompting the medical team to continue with the discharge process. The nurse, Jennifer McGinnis, was responsible for explaining all the paperwork and discharge instructions. My father and I were instructed to go to the VA hospital to stay overnight and take the VA shuttle back to Altoona the next day. She personally assisted my father and me to the AOD window to arrange for our shuttle to the hotel. He would not receive any assistance getting in and out of the vehicle or into the building where we would find our room for the night. Noticing how exhausted and weak my father appeared, Jennifer consulted with other professionals at the AOD office and determined that he was not capable of leaving the hospital safely, given his condition. She arranged for my father to be readmitted to the hospital for observation and ensured he had a bed while he waited; she also helped me with luggage, paperwork, and other needs. Her kindness and compassion during this difficult situation were remarkable. I thank God for the care that nurse Jennifer McGinnis and the entire staff provided. My father needed another catheter during the midnight hours and ultimately made a full recovery from the effects of the medications. She truly deserves recognition and this award.