I was treated in the St. Anthony ER in mid-March 2021. On March 18/19, I experienced ER treatment spanning from late night on the 18th to the next day, the 19th. It is my understanding that I was experiencing dangerous symptoms of an erratic and fast-running heart during much of my overnight time. All ER personnel was pleasant and helpful to me, from the outside intake person to the doctors and nurses inside the ER. All ER personnel who worked with me were visibly concerned about me and were very helpful.
I would like to make some extra comments about Torey Narans, my ER nurse from the night of March 18 and into the morning of March 19. He was a caring individual who did a lot to put my mind at ease during this dangerous time in my life.
From the beginning, Torey was very pleasant and helpful in getting me started in the ER. He seemed to be a very good­natured individual who was pleasant to talk to. He did everything he could to make me physically comfortable. He responded without complaint when I summoned him. He didn't mind bathroom calls, requests to silence the machines in my room (which kept making sounds on and off throughout the night) when he could, requests to reach something I couldn't get to from the bed, etc. He moved chairs over to my bed so that I could have a sort of table for reading materials. etc.
Most of all, Torey spent time with me, particularly during my most dangerous period. He effectively answered my questions: Was I really at risk for a heart attack? Why were he and others worried about me having a stroke? What is the relationship between a heart attack and a stroke? How does this all relate to my heart beating too fast vs. not fast enough (which both occurred)? It was clear to me that he and others were on top of the situation; they were knowledgeable, professional, and caring individuals. They kept close track of my condition, so I didn't worry.
Part of what helped the most was the way Torey explained things. He told me about the danger but also about how and why my treatment decisions had been made. In the morning, when his shift was over, he said goodbye before he left; this might seem like a small thing, but I appreciated that.
Over these three admissions last week, I saw and experienced several St. Anthony ER and a few in-patient caretaking personnel. Some were more interested than others, but all were helpful. Some seemed to treat me more like a team member in my treatment, rather than "a patient, which was helpful to me. The ones who took the time to explain things and answer my questions were the most helpful; here I would like to also mention Dr. Williams ln the ER and Dr. Fuller, one of the cardiologists that visited me. These two folks were also very good at explaining things, and I appreciated their time with me in doing so. They helped educate me as to what the particulars are with heart function and my treatment. I felt less anxious and more cared-for.
Overall, I would describe my St. Anthony experiences last week as very good to excellent. I regret that I don't remember all the names of the folks who were helpful to me. It was a stressful week for me, but most St. Anthony folks made it easier, and I would like to thank all of them with all my heart.