Kenneth is the consummate and dedicated professional that is often missing in many disciplines these days, and nursing in particular.
Our mother was admitted on Monday after a sudden onset of fever and altered mental status. After a lengthy stay in the ER, she was admitted to 4 South with a questionable diagnosis. Her admission had some bumps in the road, with the night shift being tumultuous and challenging, to say the least, but this is about Ken. By Tuesday morning, a real diagnosis hadn't been made, and the uncertainty was more than overwhelming.
Along came Ken, with his warm smile and genuine concern. His empathy and sympathy for our concerns were genuine and very much appreciated. Although our mother was confused and truly couldn't appreciate what was happening, he still took the time and addressed her and didn't ignore her. He then focused on us and explained everything in a calm and reassuring way and ensured we understood. Then he did something we know all too well is frowned upon, he provided my sister and me with the direct phone number to his hospital phone.
Ken's clinical acumen and knowledge are second to none. When our mother wasn't producing urine, he immediately assessed and started the process to communicate his concerns to the doctors and made a sound recommendation which provided the avenue to start looking towards a possible reason. When her oxygen saturation was inadequate, he once again assessed her clinical status and began the process of where the hospitalist rounded and began ordering a test to include an ABG. Because of his tenacity and attention to detail, the ABG revealed low Oxygen perfusion, resulting in bedside oxygen administration.
All the time, he stayed by our mother's side and ensured her fears and tears were assuaged by his dedication and compassion. All along he maintained communications with both my sister and me and explained all that was happening and the current treatment plan. He ensured that any/all doctors involved directly communicated with us.
As is often the case, it's the small details that make all the difference. She required a STAT Chest CT Scan, and Ken could've easily had allowed her to be transported by stretcher. Once again, using sound clinical judgment, accounting for her safety and welfare, he decided she would be transported in her hospital bed to minimize her pain and discomfort. This while it might seem insignificant to many, illustrates the care and compassion Ken provides his patients. He truly applies both a clinical and holistic approach to patient and family interaction, making sometimes difficult situations both manageable and palatable.
Ken's dedication on this day relieved the angst and concerns of a family. He consistently watched over her and ensured she was well cared for. All this while simultaneously caring for all his other patients and tending to all their needs. I had an opportunity to speak with the family member of another patient Ken was caring for. This gentleman echoed the very same sentiments which I've stated in this narrative, that is, Ken went above and beyond to make both their family member and the family feels as if they were the only patient he was assigned.
To say that Ken went above and beyond his nursing responsibility is an understatement. He's the consummate professional, that no matter what's happening always has that smile on his face. He represents the very best in nursing and Baptist overall. Ken makes Baptist look good.
Ken from a grateful family, we want to say Thank You very much.