Nicole Bell
September 2021
Nicole
Bell
,
RN
MICU
Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West
Nashville
,
TN
United States
Nicole encouraged him to keep going and was gentle and compassionate but firm when she gave him directions.
I flew in from Seattle, Washington to find my brother on a respirator. He was intubated for 12 days and then a trach and feeding tube was placed. I saw exceptional care given to my brother. One nurse in particular caught my attention. I work in health care and I recognize exceptional people and caregivers. She talked directly to my brother when providing care. She explained everything before she did it to him. If you know what someone is about to do to you, you're not afraid. She encouraged him to keep going and was gentle and compassionate but firm when she gave him directions. She talked to family and made them feel comfortable. On the last day, physical therapy came in and I saw my brother stand for the first time in 19 days. Nicole was as excited for us to see him stand as I was to see him progress to this point. Everyone at Saint Thomas West ICU on the 3rd floor are angels in blue. I have great respect and love for every one of you. My brother owes his life to you. A simple thank you is not enough.