My husband was a patient on 3W. He was fortunate to have Jessie as his nurse. She exemplified the "Art of Nursing" in all of the care she gave him. Her communication with him, he is hard of hearing, was excellent as she spoke directly to him rather than only to family members. As a nurse and teacher for many years, I was impressed and pleased to see the basic but critical nursing care implemented throughout the 12 hours Jessie cared for him, i.e.; observation of vital signs, breath sounds, skin integrity, surgical site, peripheral pulses, position changes as needed, medications on time, monitoring IV therapy, catheter care, encouraging coughing and deep breathing. All cares were explained as she implemented them. Jessie's cheerful, caring demeanor endeared her to my husband as he told someone, "she was an exceptional nurse".

If I were asked to develop a blueprint for the ideal nurse who is practicing today, I would recommend Jessie as a role model because of her professionalism, organizational skills and caring manner.