Carlene is a wound care ostomy nurse and has maintained her accreditation for years now. During this time I had the honor to be mentored and be taught by her. She is the most compassionate wound care nurse I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She puts her patients before herself, which often means working long hours, taking calls from concerned patients in the evening, and even driving to nursing homes to assist staff with difficult dressing changes. I can truly see God's work through her nursing care.
This past year has been extremely difficult for the wound care team, mainly Carlene. You see, in September the unit experienced a loss of a co-worker. It took an emotional toll on everyone in the unit, especially Carlene who was a close confidant and friend. After the loss, Carlene found herself working 2 jobs at the wound clinic and in the hospital. She knew the importance of caring for the often-dismissed patient. Carlene also mentored many nursing students during this time. The strength of this woman is amazing. Around October Missouri State inspected the unit and she worked tirelessly to make sure policies and procedures were up to Mercy and State Standards.
There are so many patient stories that show Carlene's compassion, empathy, and concern. My most beloved wound patient story was from this past year. This patient was an uncontrolled diabetic which subsequently led to a foot injury wound. The time Carlene took to teach this gentleman about the disease process and wound care was absolutely amazing. The way she communicated was very matter of fact, but also extremely compassionate. I feel her teaching and time saved this man from having an amputation. Not only did she have a tremendous effect on this patient, but she had one on me as well. I saw her compassion and knowledge. I attempt to conduct myself and communicate the way she does during difficult patient situations. It truly is a blessing to work and be mentored by her.
My own dad had open abdominal surgery 2 years ago, with a difficult wound to heal he was under the guidance of his surgeon, but Carlene talked with him, just because she was my friend. She listened to him and encouraged him. It was nice hearing advice from a wound care nurse, that wasn't his daughter. (He's 100% healed now).
Carlene is up to date on trending and new evidence-based practices in the wound care world and teaches new grads as well as nursing staff at Mercy Washington.
Carlene in my opinion is the most unsung HERO at Mercy Washington. Her patients and co-workers love and admire her. We respect her opinion and draw from her vast knowledge. She is a true DAISY Nurse.