May 2024
Kate L
Carviou
,
RN
Emergency
Aspirus Eagle River Hospital
Eagle River
,
WI
United States
I felt like I was a terrible patient, but Katie never showed any frustration with me.
I woke up from a dead sleep with severe pain in my left lower back. After the pain became more severe, I became nauseated and decided to drive myself to the emergency room. When I arrived, (I believe it was around 3 am) I was beyond miserable. My pain was excruciating, and I was nauseated, dry heaving, and vomiting. Katie, RN, did my triage and I'm convinced looking back at my visit, she was probably thinking I was possessed. I couldn't sit down on the cot. I was so uncomfortable. And I'm positive, I was pretty cranky, unfriendly, and crabby. Katie did such an amazing job at making me comfortable. She inserted my IV and drew my labs while I had my head in a bucket (now there's a visual). Now I realize these may not be the details you want to hear but gosh I was beyond miserable. When I kept getting up to the bathroom, she kindly stated, " I would really like to give you medication to make you comfortable. I can come with you." Now being a grown adult, I never thought I would take an offer to accommodate me to the bathroom, but well, I took her up on it. She gave me pain meds, IV fluids, and anti-nausea medications. CT came and confirmed the suspicion that I had a kidney stone. Now I have heard the horror stories of kidney stones, but did I believe them? Absolutely not! What could be worse than childbirth? Let me tell you, I now know... they earned their reputation! After another dose of medication, I was more comfortable, but in the meantime, Katie constantly checked in on me. Her endless supply of blankets and heat packs for my lower back were so greatly appreciated. I felt like I was a terrible patient, but Katie never showed any frustration with me. As my pain and nausea improved, Katie gave me all my discharge instructions and supplies for home. I just wanted to applaud Katie for all her hard work. I know firsthand that nursing can be a thankless job. I know working off shifts can be difficult as well. With that said, I couldn't find anyone more deserving of The DAISY Award. Her compassion and patience with me were priceless (and I will once again admit, I was probably a terrible patient. Sorry Katie) This was my first time in the emergency room here and I'm so glad Katie was my nurse. Although I was disappointed that I got sick over the holidays, I was happy to tell my friends and family how great my nurse was. Katie, you were my hero that night. She was amazing and I am beyond thankful. With sincere thanks.