June 2017
Melissa
McChesney
,
RN
Intensive Care Unit
Longmont United Hospital
Longmont
,
CO
United States
My sister suffered a rare amniotic fluid embolism while giving birth to twin girls. Her heart stopped for 5 minutes and due to the quick response of the Doctors and Nurses they managed to bring her back. She was then put on a ventilator and transferred to ICU. This is where Melissa comes in. Melissa was my sister's nurse for two nights in ICU in which time she not only provided exceptional medical care but gave me the support I really needed to get through a very tough time. I stayed with my sister most of the time when she was in ICU. Melissa worked the two night shifts. Melissa was there every time I had questions and never got irritated even though I am sure I asked the same thing several times! Melissa talked to my sister like she was a friend and stroked her hair while she was sedated on the ventilator, which put me at ease that she was being looked after by someone who cared so much. She made me feel totally welcome to stay and even got me blankets and pillows so I could get a few minutes sleep. Melissa always asked me if there was anything I needed and got me water and food and made me look after myself! Every time I would come into ICU Melissa would smile and give me hug which meant so much to me. When my sister was taken off the sedatives and ventilator, Melissa was by her side calming her down and was there to explain everything. Melissa even arranged for my sister to see her twin girls for the first time, which was not an easy task or one that would ever be in her job description. Every step of the way Melissa supported her and was exceptionally patient and caring of her needs. Even after my sister was moved to the Telemetry unit Melissa came to visit with her and offered her continued support not only with medical concerns but emotional. This is an incredible thing to do as emotional support plays such an important role in recovery. After my sister was discharged, Melissa has continued to be interested in hearing about her recovery and I am sure will become a lifelong friend. I cannot thank Melissa enough for the amazing positive attitude and care she provided for not only my sister but our whole family. This exceptional kindness and consideration is why I think Melissa is a true DAISY Nurse.