March 2023
Odette
Dunlop
,
BSN, RN
Emergency Department
Pennsylvania Hospital
Philadelphia
,
PA
United States
She explained everything with compassion and patience, she made what is usually a scary and uncomfortable experience a completely judgement free and safe space.
Having suffered from chronic pancreatitis for the past three years, I have had many experiences in and out of the emergency departments of many hospitals. Often times this is something I dread as I never know how I will be perceived, being a woman, someone with chronic pain, and in a fat body, it's hard to know if I will be believed and given the care I am hoping for. I have never had a nurse as compassionate and attentive as Odette. As someone who lives in a larger body, I expressed concern that my blood pressure wasn't reading correctly due to the cuff not fitting. Odette went and sought out a thigh cuff and told me I could always ask for one to be used so I could get accurate care. She explained everything with compassion and patience, she made what is usually a scary and uncomfortable experience a completely judgement free and safe space. She expressed empathy for my chronic illness and understanding of my current situation. She remembered minor details from my chart which was obvious she thoroughly reviewed before giving me care and made me feel as though I was receiving the best medical attention possible. I wish every medical interaction could be as comforting and pleasant as my evening with Odette. I will remember this visit for years to come.