I was a patient for 22 days as a result of a colon perforation. I had several issues going on at the same time and at times it seemed to be overwhelming. The bright spot of my stay was nurse Theresa. She went out of her way to explain exactly what was going on. She was always willing, even when I know she was busy, to answer a question or help me in any way she could.
Perhaps what stuck out most and made such a huge difference was Theresa's accountability and willingness to be an advocate for my care. I was seeing multiple physicians and it was during Christmas and New Year's. If a test or lab or a consult was needed Theresa would ask me if I would like her to call the Doctor or have the charge nurse call. There were days when I know I would not have gotten what I needed as efficiently if Theresa had not taken the initiative and been an advocate for me.
Her excellency in nursing always shone brightly. She was not only professional and competent, but she also displayed a soothing sense of compassion and kindness. At one point on New Year's Eve, I was supposed to get a PICC line. It had been a frustrating few days prior to this and I was feeling overwhelmed. The PICC line was inserted twice and both times the follow up x-ray revealed it was not correctly placed. By the time the 2nd one was found to be no good it was late on New Year's Eve, actually, I should say early on New Year's Day.
The next morning Theresa came in and was so busy with all her patients (especially one unruly one next door). I was distraught and very disappointed I started to cry a bit and Theresa sat down on the bed next to me. She encouraged me a gave me renewed hope. I think she is the epitome of what the DAISY Award is all about: An Extraordinary Nurse.