This individual nurse was only with us for a short period of time and was the first professional we encountered from Mercy when we were very anxious and unaware of what was going to happen. The nurse was very compassionate about assessing my husband's needs. G's anxiety level and pain level were off the chart by this time due to the trauma of multi catheterizations before arrival at the hospital. Upon arrival, as a direct admit from the doctor's office, we had to wait in the public waiting area which was extremely uncomfortable and embarrassing for my husband who had a Foley catheter and drainage bag in place. G had not eaten since early, had a headache, and was completely exhausted. The nurse quickly assessed the situation, and with calmness and a plan of attack proceeded to meet his most basic needs. She let him know the pain meds were coming and he needed to select some food items, so he could have some food in his stomach before he took the medications the doctor had ordered.
Additionally, she said the admission paperwork would be done a little later when his pain was less, and he had something to eat. The dietary staff was very prompt about delivering the food and the staff person was very pleasant.
The admitting nurse let us know when she was leaving, and when the new nurse would be in to administer his meds. As a team, they both came in and reported off and gave report to each in our presence, so we knew what the plan was and who was our new caregiver. This represented real teamwork in our eyes and instilled a level of confidence in the care that would be provided. This was very comforting to both of us.