My husband was going through a very dark time and was practically paralyzed with fear and anxiety, we found ourselves at the Emergency Department as a last resort not knowing where else to go for help. My husband had finally admitted that he needed help for his anxiety and depression and after a very long morning of trying to obtain a same day appointment for a psychiatrist, we came to the ER for help. My Husband was extremely reluctant to enter the ED because I work at the hospital and he was so worried that people would know he was there and talk about him. After explaining the situation to the triage nurse, we were brought in through the back ambulance entrance and into the closest room. That is when Keith came to the rescue.
He walked into the room and instantly saw the situation for what it was: A very scared man who was in need of discretion and help. From that moment forward Keith would not allow any other staff to enter the room. He was able to register my husband quietly and his name was protected from other staff members. My husband needed lab work but Keith would not allow the lab staff to enter. Keith drew the blood himself, all the while spending enormous amounts of time talking to my husband of his worries, fear, and the things he was anxious about. He spoke in a way that helped calm my husband and explained to him that he was in the right place and that he would get us the help that we needed.
The process was long but resources were given to us that we wouldn't have been able to obtain on our own at home. He spent a lot of time speaking with me and checking on my mental health as well. He treated my husband with so much respect and dignity. Had we gone to another hospital, I know that my husband would have been treated just like another "crazy" person and sent home with a prescription for some anti-anxiety medication and a discharge. Keith talked about coping strategies, and how to refocus on positive aspects instead of negative. He never talked down or made my husband feel bad about needing help. My husband was so appreciative at the amount of respect and privacy he received in the ED.
We were able to exit that back door and he truly felt as though nobody knew he was there. Without Keith, our visit could have gone very differently. Keith came into our lives that morning and took my husband into his care. He barely left his side, talking to him in such a calm manner and really removing his fear and anxiety. We are so thankful for Keith. He truly is such a wonderful nurse and should be recognized for his dedication to his job. The DAISY Award is meant for nurses like him.