Modesty Espinoza
April 2023
Modesty
Espinoza
,
RN, BSN
2West Neuromuscular Unit
Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital
Wheaton
,
IL
United States

 

 

 

With the “leave of absence” to attend my father’s funeral services, Modesty could not have been more incredible. She was able to help coordinate supplies I would need for the day.
To be honest, our relationship started a little rocky. The previous day, I had a medication change, and as part of that, there were some changes to the timing of bladder scans and the need for a catheter to drain my bladder. The nurses overnight had some confusion, and with the morning shift change, Modesty knew the correct procedures. Because it was different than overnight, I was upset with the differences and felt like I was being singled out for something that I medically had no control over.

As is the case, nurses are busy and have other patients to care for. Modesty, to her credit, knew I was upset, and came back to talk when she had a moment. This really turned everything around. Not only did she go out of her way to make me feel better about my situation and explain the “why” behind the changes, but she was also personable and we were able to share experiences we had in common. Modesty approaches her job with skill, knowledge, and compassion.

My father passed away. Services were set for the following Saturday. As soon as Modesty heard about this, she became even more unbelievable than before. Not only did she express genuine compassion and sympathy, she somehow knew how to help me stay positive and “in the moment” for my PT and OT sessions the next day. With the “leave of absence” to attend my father’s funeral services, Modesty could not have been more incredible. She was able to help coordinate supplies I would need for the day. She started the process with OT and PT to help me learn and practice skills that would be necessary.

For example, the very first PT of the day was to practice slide board transfers into and out of a car. Next, OT scrapped all planned activities to work on other anticipated needs. Neither would have known about the services I would be attending without Modesty and her communication skills. Overall, I nominate Modesty based on the high level of consistent care I received from her throughout my stay. As well as her unbelievable compassion in preparing me for what could have been a very difficult day at the funeral. She exhibits consistent professionalism, skill, knowledge, and most important compassion for her patients.