I want to express my appreciation for the wonderful care my son received while in the ICU unit, and the comfort given to us as parents. Dori met us at the door and explained the situation very clearly, from our son's appearance to his mental status. As a parent you are NEVER prepared to see your child on a respirator no matter how old they are. She was so kind and helpful explaining the how and why of every aspect of the situation.

As a Rapid City Regional employee myself I understand the use of AIDET, I really want to compliment Dori, she went beyond just being an employee following the training. She gave care with a compassion that only comes from loving her position.

My son was not an easy patient, he was confused and scared. He had no recollection of the events that led him to an ICU bed; he is an adult with a mind of his own and can be very difficult. He was in restraints when we arrived so he would not pull out his vent tubes, as he became more lucid he would get agitated with the restraint on him. Dori explained the why to us, and allowed me to take the restraint off one hand so I could simply hold his hand and he became much calmer. Dori understood my need as a parent to help him through this in any way I could. It's all I had, to be able to hold my 35 year old son's hand and watch him breathe through a tube as tear rolled down his face in frustration of it all.

Dori gave my son encouragement in his progress toward healing and treated my husband and me with such compassion. She made a very difficult situation much easier for us all. I am so very grateful for her.

Dori, thank you for being such a wonderful nurse and really understanding what your patient's needs are. You are the best!!!

On behalf of my son and his family THANK YOU!