It's hard to choose a single instance of extraordinary care from Nikki Baur. While in her charge, she made an overwhelmingly positive impact that put me on the right road to recovery. As a nurse, Nikki has a special blend of compassion, generosity, and encouragement. Perhaps the single unifying factor in the numerous instances of outstanding care is her unique ability to connect with her patients. It felt as if she took personal ownership of my CICU care and hospital experience.
Nikki spent quite a bit of time with me that first day helping me understand what happened and what I was going to experience in the coming days. Nikki encouraged questions and allowed me to talk freely. She quickly understood my personality and how to work with me, to best craft a care plan for me that I understood completely.
Nikki had a vast amount of patience and tolerance when dealing with my repeated questions. Her ability to connect, along with her easy smile and contagious laughter is a perfect skill set. And, it just wasn't with me the patient, she went out of her way to get to know my husband and sister. During their daily visit, she made sure they were both informed and comfortable.
Honestly, my stay felt like a well-orchestrated symphony with Nikki conducting the way to a positive outcome, never once missing a beat. She is one of the three nurses that played a crucial role in my survival and subsequent recovery.
What words do you scribble on paper to properly express gratitude and capture Nikki's unequaled value as a cardiac nurse? Patient-focused and compassionate. Tolerant and responsive. Supportive and good-humored. Warm-hearted and generous. I hope these will do. We can't sing her praises louder.