I would like to take this opportunity to recognize an outstanding RN who took care of not only my grandmother, but our whole family while my grandmother was a patient on the 4th floor of the Progressive Care Unit (PCU) at Bayfront Medical Center.
My grandmother was suffering from pneumonia and was in the hospital for two weeks, the majority of which was spent in PCU. To be certain, we were privileged to work with an impressive, caring and attentive staff during that time, but Thomekastands out for several reasons. Thomeka's energy, positive attitude and sense of humor brought life and laughter to our often somber group. Through long hours, and while working on her advanced degree, she never seemed tired or anxious to leave work for the night.
Many times we had upwards of four or five family members in my grandmother's room. Our presence never bothered Thomeka, we never felt like we were in the way. More impressively, she managed to learn our names, keep straight the familial relationships, and find out something specific about us. She made us feel welcome and included.
Even though Thomekahad other patients to tend to, I always felt like my grandmother was a priority. Somehow Thomekamanaged to balance her workload with a smile and ensured that my grandmother never had to wait for care or attention. She never made me feel like I was asking too many questions or being too picky. Thomeka was proactive with her care for my grandmother. At one point, Thomekarecognized that my grandmother was retaining a lot of fluid. Anticipating the doctor's orders, she stopped the additional fluid IV while paging the doctor for confirmation and further instructions. She also made a conscious effort to rotate my grandmother routinely, ensuring that her skin was protected and that my grandmother was comfortable at all times.
Finally, Thomekasaid good night to me as she headed out for a four-day break, fully expecting that we would be gone by the time she got back on duty. On her first day back, we were still there, but Thomekawas not our nurse. When she saw me, Thomekacame over, hugged me, noted her surprise and then made a special effort to come to the end of the hall and say hello to my grandmother, just to check in and see how we were doing. I was honored and flattered and so grateful.
All nurses know and understand that hospitals are scary places for patients and families, many unknowns and lots of waiting. They are all trained to comfort, explain and exercise patience with their non-medical guests. I believe that type of willingness to give of one's self and care for others the way that nurses do is part of their DNA. But Thomekawent above and beyond for my grandmother, my family and me, and I want to recognize her for that, commend her efforts and say thank you.