Victoria Howard
June 2022
Victoria
Howard
,
RN
ICU
Dupont Hospital
Fort Wayne
,
IN
United States

 

 

 

This nurse went above and beyond their call of duty to make sure we were all taken care of emotionally and that we were involved in the plan of care.
I would like to nominate "K," Victoria, and "D" from ICU, for the DAISY Award. My brother "M" was admitted to Dupont in late December with Covid. It was a roller coaster ride that this disease had on my brother, but these three nurses went above and beyond their call of duty to make sure we were all taken care of emotionally and that we were involved in the plan of care. "M" was transferred to the Dupont ICU and passed away a few days later at 2 p.m. He passed on his own, with his family by his side and with dignity, thanks in part to the excellent nursing staff in that unit. After his passing, Victoria took the time to make a mold of "M's" handprint for his wife. What a special keepsake and another example of intentional care. My brother was a large man. He was 6'8 tall and weighed over 350 lbs. As you can imagine, this obstacle in itself required extra patience and hands to treat. In highsight, I feel that "K," Victoria, and "D" were pretty sure he wouldn't make it out of ICU, but their kindness and tenderheartedness was present, supporting the family each and every time they were able to visit "M." They were honest in sharing when he was going through rough spots, and they did everything they could to help him while keeping him comfortable. Every time I visited, they took the time to explain his condition in a way I understood. They would hold me as I cried when eventually we realized there would be no coming home. They always kept him as clean and comfortable as possible even though they were very busy. After he was on the ventilator, they would rotate him as much as his condition would allow to keep his skin from breaking down. Again, this may have been more for the family than "M" standing with us in our hearts and sorrow. The entire time he was in the ICU with these ladies, he was treated with respect even when he was sedated. I could go on and on, but I want you to know that I can not fathom how difficult this position is, let alone during the time of COVID. Day in and day out, seeing people pass and hear the grieving families. I am so thankful that these nurses were on the shift and working; their smiles, tears, hugs, and constant support will never be forgotten. Thank you, "K," Victoria, and "D" for being willing to serve in such a stressful yet fulfilling job where you not only treat critically ill patients but give so much of yourselves to their families.