Johnnie has the ability to work with patients and families that are perceived by many nurses to be "difficult." ICU recently had an elderly patient with a cervical spine fracture that led to a new diagnosis of quadriplegia. That patient required a tracheostomy and ventilator support. His family, by all accounts, were quite demanding of the nursing staff so much that many nurses who worked with the family became frustrated with the situation, but not Johnnie. Johnnie has a way of developing a rapport with families that make them feel more at ease, which reduces the tension and anxiety that patients and their family feel with life-changing diagnoses. Johnnie goes above and beyond to work with the families in times of crisis by developing a rapport, finding out what their concerns and needs are, and making appropriate referrals. Johnnie was the only nurse that stated, "I love that family!" The patient appreciated her interactions with his family so much that he mouthed to his family he wanted to make her an "honorary daughter."
Additionally, Johnnie also has a special interest in working with comfort care patients and their families. That's the time she rolls up her sleeves and works tirelessly ensuring the patient's physical comfort while tending to the families' physical and emotional comfort. She has stated that she loves to work with the dying patient, and she views each case as unique and tailors her care to match the needs of each family. Johnnie is an integral part of our ICU team and a true DAISY Nurse.