June 2022
Michelle "Shelly"
Allen
,
RN, BSN
Intensive Care Unit
Guthrie Corning Hospital
Corning
,
NY
United States

 

 

 

She managed blood draws, IV antibiotics, PT, and OT, all with huge compassion, competence, and humor.
A push from an exuberant puppy resulted in 2 broken neck vertebrae, a 5 staple head gash, and a superficial clot in my left arm. COVID complicated my 2 weeks of recovery at Robert Packer. I appeared again at the ER short of breath, and positive for bacteria in my sputum and blood and my pacemaker complicated the blood infection. These, on top of a broken neck and swollen arm, got me into the ICU, where Shelly took care of me. Her care was excellent, especially given my set of issues. She managed blood draws, IV antibiotics, PT, and OT, all with huge compassion, competence, and humor. Most notably she focused on my swollen arm, which tended to get little attention otherwise. She encouraged me to move my left arm to reduce the swelling. Every visit included a session of opening and closing my hand and evaluating the area. I felt sincere concern all around, reflected in the attention to my arm. More than once she said, "Frankly, I just want you to get better". Her encouragement with my arm translated into inspiration to also work on PT and eating well. Even on her day off, Shelly didn't let up. she called the nurse's station to remind the nurse to have me work on my arm (and get better)! Even in a hospital where every nurse is excellent, Shelly stands out. So, I prepare once more for rehab and her encouragement remains an inspiration. I am thankful for the special care Shelly provided.