Laura never lets her position block her from her first love, patient care. She is always the first to greet a new patient and immediately puts them a t ease. Her thoughtful banter, concerns for a new treatment and a genuine interest in the patient’s story always calms them. The skill in which she performs care reflects her experience and ability to handle unexpected problems with confidence, allaying fears.
Our patients are repeat customers. Treatments here allow time to discuss the patients’ symptoms in depth. Laura elicits a remarkable amount of information about the patient that enhances care. Small factors that may be missed on a physician exam are brought up during the time of a treatment. Anything that may make the patient more comfortable for their stay is offered. Patients may need assistance with food preparation brought from home or special comforts to dissipate time. Laura arranges patient times with flexibility of time and day. Without this consideration, many patients would not be able to arrive for treatment. Sometimes patients are off of treatment for a period of time, but Laura always follows them by telephone assuring that contact is maintained, even when treatments have been completed. Not a day goes by without her saying “I just have to call to see how (patient) is doing”. People appreciate her concern for them. Her concern is definitely above and beyond her regular responsibilities, but this effort helps patients feel as though they are truly part of a family that they can trust.
The staff also reaps the benefits of Laura’s of Laura’s caring spirit. She always expresses interest in us as people outside the unit and as nurse she keeps track of how we are doing. She coordinates the unit with a firm but gentle hand, and guides us tactfully into complying with the needs of the unit. When her ideas are questioned, she is open to others thoughts and concerns, but even with an open mind, she is no pushover. She will maintain her position on hospital initiatives to keep our unit running well.
Laura is a natural advocate for her patients and for her nursing team. She takes care of things she is able to manage and delegates responsibilities to others. She has an infectious positive attitude, setting an example by returning to school to complete her BSN.