My husband had hip replacement surgery at UCDMC. Following surgery he was placed in bed 13, East Wing 6th Floor, for post-surgical care due to a rapid heart rate, irregular heart beat and daily spikes in temperature. After five days he transferred to a rehab facility.

During that time he went from very confused and agitated, to almost his usual self. It appears that he is particularly sensitive to the narcotics he was given for pain control. This sensitivity made him angry, agitated, accusatory to anyone who tried to help him, including his devoted wife. I stayed with him most of the day as he had been the same way 5 years previous when he had 2 knee replacements. At that time, I stayed overnight as he continually tried to get out of bed, pull off his gown and ECG leads. I explained all this to his young nurse, Scarlet Hughes, who had him the 2nd, 3rd and 4th days of his stay.

She proved to be a remarkably good nurse in spite of my husband's resistance to almost anything suggested. She handled him so well, that in the midst of everything he didn't like, he listened to her, understood her and even praised her as "the only one who listens to me".

I watched each day as she came in and out of the room. She was always attentive, always helpful and would suggest possible solutions to my husband and my concerns. She did this each day.

She had 3 patients under her care at the time. Three, who required much physical and emotional effort. The young man in the next bed, was one of the three. He required care in every way, suctioning his airways, assistance with everything, he hiccupped constantly. He alone occupied much of her time, yet she had 2 others whom she served with a warm heart and great efficiency.

I compliment you on choosing. Scarlet Hughes, RN to be part of your professional team. She made a huge impression on both my husband and myself.