MaKayla was recovering a gentleman from his total knee replacement, and he was very confused when he woke up. Unsure of why he was in pain, unsure of why he had surgery, and unsure of why he could not see his family. The hospital on this day was full, so he was waiting for an inpatient room for nearly 3 hours in the PACU. MaKayla stayed by his bedside the entire time, reorienting him, distracting him with conversation, and decreasing environmental stimulation. They were able to connect through farming and their families, and after a while, the patient came around.

Upon the patient's discharge from PACU, he was very grateful for MaKayla's care and told her he would miss her company the rest of the day. This is just one example of the above-and-beyond type of care MaKayla provides to patients waking up from surgery. As such, a delicate and vulnerable time in the patient's experience, MaKayla continuously proves why she thrives in this department. Patients don't always remember this experience, but her coworkers sure do and are so grateful to have her on our team.