Shannon Umberger, RN, BSN

I am submitting this e-mail to inform the VA of my experience. I was admitted for a pacemaker implant after showing signs of extreme issues with my heart and pulse rates. I was immediately taken to the ICU unit after a brief check-in to the ER, and at that time was met by numerous employees from the VA hospital staff. To that point, everyone I had come into contact with was attentive, kind, and caring, which leads me to the commendation I wish to offer.
My primary nurse during my stay at the VA proved to be very caring, warm, and extremely understanding, as well as patient with me under what were, for me, stressful circumstances. She spent undue time with me listening to my questions and providing thoughtful responses and information. She allowed me to babble on and on about my life and was both interested and sympathetic as needed or fit the discussions. Her compassion was beyond measure, and I know this having come from a family where my own mother was a registered nurse and WWII veteran. This nurse had that "something special" vibe about how she took care of me that anyone would hope for and want to put them at ease in their time of need.
When I came back from the procedure the first day of my admission, she was waiting for me at the door to my room, and immediately made sure I was comfortable and had whatever I needed. She checked in on me often, with gentleness and warmth. I made it through the first night in a fair amount of discomfort, and she was there the next morning to greet me and check on my needs and progress. As the morning wore on, I saw physicians, a physical therapy technician, pharmacists, members of the surgical team, and the dietary staff; my nurse filled in between these visits to check in on me. Upon evaluations, I was told I'd be released to return home. She came to take my final readings and then went beyond that to provide me with information related to my recovery as well as following up on my questions regarding issues found during my scans that will lead to further treatment down the road. She printed out instructions for me, highlighted important passages, and discussed them with me before walking me out of the facility.
I have met many, many health care professionals in my 79 years, and for my money she stands head and shoulders above most, if not all. She is a true gem, and I hope she gets the recognition she rightly deserves. On a closing note, I also want to extend my compliments to the entire department for their kindness and professionalism throughout my stay.