Kim has never complained about anything or had a cross word to say to anyone in the workplace and there is no nurse in Labor and Delivery that receives more compliments from patients and families then Kim does. After observing the care she provided a couple during a delivery recently I truly understand why.

During our huddle, Kim volunteered to care for a couple in labor who were hearing impaired. She said she knew a "little" sign language.

Kim spent many hours caring for this couple. As the time of delivery approached I entered the room to assist. I was so moved by what I observed that at one point I had to step out of the room to compose myself. The couple was totally focused on Kim as she used sign language to instruct the mother how to effectively push with her contractions. Like me, the patient's own mother was brought to tears as she watched Kim working with her daughter and son-in-law.

I have never been present for the birth of a baby where the room was totally silent. That day, in that room no words were spoken. In those moments all of us in the room witnessed Kim assist that family to experience the "miracle of birth." No one in the department could have done a better job for this family. Sure, if Kim had not been there we would have used the translation line but it can be a little impersonal and awkward when moms are delivering. That family was blessed to have Kim there that day and we are blessed to have Kim as part of our L/D team.

Kim demonstrated what family centered care truly means.