Melanie Schumpert was our patient's nurse on Thursday and Friday and showed incredible insight and patience in dealing with this very anxious and painful patient. This patient was involved in a horrific motor vehicle collision resulting in multiple wounds, fractures and an above the knee amputation. The patient underwent a manipulation of his left knee on Thursday morning and unfortunately the combination of this pain and the worsening anxiety was the perfect storm for a very upset patient and family. The family was appreciative of the medical staff but was concerned over the patient's overall presentation. Melanie stayed calm and did a wonderful job of communicating the patient's medical status to the Trauma Team and the Ortho Team.
I had the difficult task of bending the patient's left knee and Melanie was so helpful in providing whatever was needed to make this painful experience more bearable. Melanie offered continuous support and any assistance she could provide. Melanie never got frustrated or distracted. On Friday, Melanie was again very receptive to developing a plan to coordinate pain meds and Physical Therapy.
Despite having other difficult patients, Melanie never appeared rushed or exasperated. She is a wonderful example of compassionate care and is a great asset to the trauma floor and Palmetto Health Richland.