I would like to thank John Howard from the ICU. Due to a periprosthetic fracture, I underwent a left femur fracture repair with THA revision. Following a minor complication post-op with hypotension in PACU, I was admitted with John as my nurse. Immediately upon arriving to the floor, I was assessed head to toe. Every time John entered the room, the first question was "What is your name & date of birth?" With every medication that John administered, he explained what the medication was being given for. He was easily able to identify the difference between a pain shiver versus a cold shiver. When it came time to get up to the bathroom, I was unhooked from the SCDs and John went to assist me out of bed. Being a fresh THA patient, I asked him to allow me to transfer as I had been by using my good foot to lift my left foot while scooting to the edge of the bed. Though hesitant, John trusted me allowing me to demonstrate the technique that had been working for me. After toileting while ambulating in the hall, John immediately identified that the walker was too tall for me and adjusted it.

Following an overnight stay in the hospital, John greeted me again the following morning as my nurse. He rounded with my physician that morning, asking specific questions of my physician as he noted discharge instructions. He thoroughly went over discharge instructions and education on medication, safe transfers, and equipment. He kept me updated and informed about working with physical therapy for my therapy evaluation, discharge instructions, and a realistic discharge time. Throughout my stay, John exemplified professional, compassionate care. My discharge process was smooth and seamless. Unfortunately, this was not my only encounter with John.

Soon after, I suffered a spontaneous dislocation of the left hip which resulted in my return to Baylor Surgical Hospital Emergency Department via EMS. After a reduction under anesthesia that evening, once again I was admitted to the floor. In PACU I had specifically requested John as my nurse since he was familiar with me as a patient. John happened to be working the following morning. Again during my second stay, John was an amazing clinician. He exhibited concern, compassion, and empathy for my condition. He reassured me that though I had encountered a couple of setbacks, I was capable of overcoming these complications. He continued to educate me on every medication, and addressed the swelling and use of the wedge. John again rounded with the doctor that morning to ensure accuracy with all discharge plans and instructions. This stay required being fitted for a brace by Hanger Orthotics & Prosthetics. As my nurse, John kept me updated and informed on when I could realistically expect the Hanger rep to arrive. After being fitted for the brace, I was discharged promptly. During both of my stays, my comfort was of utmost importance to John. He always assessed my pain, treated it accordingly, and made time to walk with me every time after toileting.

I have been a nurse for 31 years and rarely in the healthcare setting do I ever reveal my background. I chose to share my profession with John and he never discounted my thoughts, questions, or disappointment and frustration with the complications. I can truly say I completely trusted the care I received while at Baylor Surgical Hospital and in the care of John Howard. During the most challenging time of my life, John took time to sit and visit with me, educate and reassure me. John is one of the best nurses I have ever encountered and is an asset to the nursing profession as well as Baylor Surgical Care. 

Note: This is John's 2nd DAISY Award!