During my stay on the post-op floor, a majority of the time I was cared for by my day shift nurse, Dawn Swanson, and the evening shift nurse, Michael Bartsch. While each had their own attributes, skills, traits and personalities, I was most impressed with the teamwork they displayed that made my care and recovery seamless. I was included in the shift change briefings with both Dawn and Michael. We summarized the day's events and activities and I knew what to look forward to for the evening. Dawn and Michael truly reflected patient involvement in my own health care allowing my comments, questions, and input. Dawn and Michael both shared a common trait that they personalized the nurse-patient relationship just enough that I knew my care was in the hands of experienced skilled professionals that were also neighbors and community members with many shared experiences and stories. Michael was my steady confident and meticulous rock. Michael was sure to see that not only was everything I was supposed to have was done but that I understood what and why. He never seemed to rest. As my strength and confidence grew and I was allowed to make those small walking trips up and down the hallway, there was Michael outside a room standing at his mobile workstation completing whatever it is they record. The best part was that he greeted and encouraged me each time I traveled that short distance. I could feel Michael's watchful eye on my back as I passed. He too shared information with my family and made them comfortable and confident during our stressful time. As individuals, Dawn and Michael are dedicated, skilled professionals. Dedicated to their profession, their patients, and even their employer. They are great representatives of Advocate Condell. As a team, I could not ask for two better medical professionals and I might event call them temporary friends to care for me and my family. Thank you, Dawn and Michael.
Here is the link to Dawn Swanson's Spotlight:
https://www.daisyfoundation.org/daisy-award/honorees/dawn-swanson