Amongst the many tasks and responsibilities Tamekia had during her shift, the most important thing she could do for me was to help me have a bowel movement with a bowel obstruction, postoperative ileus, and a need to have a bowel movement prior to discharge. This was a necessary task! Tamekia was phenomenal at staying on top of medications, she recommended helpful bowel cocktails, ensured I had plenty of fluids, and encouraged frequent mobility/walking to help meet the goal of a BM.

I told Tamekia that whichever nurse was present when I finally had a BM, would be crowned “Poo Princess.” We laughed and went about the day/days. On our 2nd day together, I finally had a bowel movement and was able to crown Tamekia and give her a little sign that the secretary made. Together we laughed and celebrated. What a relief medically and emotionally to know that I could now be discharged! In addition, Tamekia is just overall an incredible nurse! She shared with me that she had been a nurse less than a year, you would never know this.

Tamekia has an air about herself that exudes confidence and competence that was comforting to me as a patient. Tamekia’s time management skills are impressive, she was always available and present when she said she would be. There was minimal wait if I needed to call her, and she always came through the door with a smile on her face. While I know I’m not her only patient when was with me she was fully present, unrushed and it made me feel like I was her only patient. Tamekia was instrumental in my healing, and I couldn’t be more thankful!