May 2024
Mackenzie G
Whalen
,
BSN, RN
Coronary Care Unit
Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center
Los Angeles
,
CA
United States
Not only was she brilliant and knowledgeable about providing top-notch care, but she also intently listened to questions, patiently answered them, followed up when needed, tended to the details, and sincerely cared for my brother.
My 46-year-old brother had a cardiac arrest (in fact, he had two within hours of each other) while at the hospital. It was a traumatic experience for me, and my family and the days following were filled with fear, questions, unknowns, new medical terms, anticipation of results, and so many more factors colliding together to create an unexpected storm for my family. At a time like this, it is so important how nurses interact with the family members; I wholeheartedly believe that their actions often determine the family's experience. Mackenzie was extraordinary!! I was so impressed and thankful for her. Not only was she brilliant and knowledgeable about providing top-notch care, but she also intently listened to questions, patiently answered them, followed up when needed, tended to the details, and sincerely cared for my brother. It was obvious that she recognized that beneath the body lying on the bed - one that was marked with a ventilator, innumerable lines, machines, and gadgets - was a human being very special to his family. When we brought in a picture of my brother with his nieces and nephews and wanted to find a place to display it in the room, she didn't dismiss our request as frivolous but instead helped us find the perfect spot, got the tape and put it up. All day, she was attentive to my brother's every move and every number on the monitor, making adjustments as needed that were most favorable for him. It's very evident that this is not just a job to Mackenzie but a heart-driven passion. ​She is so worthy of this DAISY Award!