Helen Lawrence
April 2019
Helen
Lawrence
,
RN
Heart and Vascular Unit
Anne Arundel Medical Center
Annapolis
,
MD
United States

 

 

 

My father came into the Emergency Department on a Tuesday very disoriented, confused, and in pain. He was admitted to the Heart and Vascular Unit. Helen asked many questions about my father not only pertaining to his stay but also pertaining to his likes and dislikes. It seemed that she not only wanted to make sure he was pain-free but that he was well cared for and as comfortable as he could be in the hospital. By Friday afternoon, my father was rather irritated by still being in the hospital and decided to "act out." He wanted to leave and tried to dress and walk out. Helen knew that in his condition he could not leave and convinced him to stay by talking with him about what she could do for him. She listened to his concerns and provided help and support. My father can be a rather stubborn and angry person at times. I want to commend Helen for never faltering or getting upset when he lashed out at her. Even during his times of frustration, she was extremely compassionate and caring. Helen exemplifies what a nurse should be.