Kaitlyn
Letzkus
February 2020
Kaitlyn
Letzkus
,
RN, BSN
Neuro Trauma
Orlando Regional Medical Center
Orlando
,
FL
United States
When I was admitted to ORMC, I was both physically and emotionally empty. I had endured a sexual and physical assault, and I was also struggling with drug addiction. I had several nurses before Kaitlyn, all of which were great, but Kaitlyn, was the nurse who stuck out and who really went above and beyond with me. Her passion for nursing was evident from the beginning. She carried a positive attitude and smile, all of which you could tell was not forced. Her genuine attitude helped bring me out of my shell. Her empathy was on full display throughout my time with her as my nurse. She would listen when I talked, I mean, really listen and she would give advice. It was easy for me to trust Kaitlyn, which is why on Thanksgiving, she was one of the first people I told about my attack. I also found myself opening-up to her about my addiction and fears. She probably didn't have time, but she engaged in conversation anyway and made me feel not so alone on Thanksgiving. She helped me view things in a more positive way. Kaitlyn's admirable attributes are numerous. Mostly, her ability to slow down and make me feel like an actual human being verses a patient. I can't tell you how many times she had to change my bed, assist me with changing my gown, getting ice and water, etc. What I remember the most, though, is how impressed I was when I overheard her talking to nutrition on my behalf. She remembered that my food needed to be chopped up and she also remembered that ice cream helped numb my throat where I hurt. Finally, her selflessness was evident every time she stepped into my room. Even with alarms ringing down the hall, chaos ensuing elsewhere, she still managed to take a deep breath every time she entered my room and made me feel important. Kaitlyn is a unique nurse and I appreciate her.