I was admitted to PBMC for DUT and PE-bilateral. Even though I am a nurse myself, I was terrified. The day shift got me settled in. Shift change and on came Nathaniel. As we got to know each other, he quickly told me he had been a nurse for just a few years, felt intimidated taking care of a former Special Care Unit nurse of PBMC, but would do his best. Easily admitted his short comings of knowledge of working with ports but again he would do his best and access resources to ensure I got the best care. I knew I was in the best possible hands.
Nathaniel eased my fears. This is what nursing is about and although he was one of our young nurses, he already knew the first rule of conduct, make your patient feel safe. He had done this in admitting his short comings but knowing how to access the tools and staff for resources and patient safety. Well, as the night wore on, the doctor came in to tell me of the "life threatening emergency" of my condition and the need to be transferred to another hospital for further intervention due to the extensiveness of my clots. Believe you me, I was terrified, overwhelmed and didn't want to go.
Nathaniel's gentle, calm, reassuring spirit came out. He made me feel at such ease. We joked about saving my premier PBMC room (48 - can see the ocean). He hugged me as they loaded me on the stretcher and reassured me I would do fine. I had been in the best possible hands. This young nurse who readily admitted things is able to ensure patient safety, compassion, and reassurance is the example of compassionate care and an outstanding role model for all nurses to follow for their practice.
I will never forget the care he gave, especially emotional care. It was truly my privilege having Nathaniel as my nurse.