Joe Schmuecker's extraordinary compassion and clinical skill exemplify the kind of nurse that patients, their families, and others should recognize as a role model.
My grandson is just barely five months old, but he has spent a large portion of his life in various healthcare facilities. To say this creates stress is putting it lightly. As a grandmother, I am filled with much awe when I see how great his mother is to him. However, there is always an underlying worry that people will judge her because she is a young single parent to a beautiful miracle who has many needs such as a tracheostomy/vent and feeding tube, to name a few.
Earlier this year, my grandson needed emergent care at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics ED. We met Joe when he introduced himself to us as my grandson's nurse. Right away, he took a different approach towards his mom and him. He listened to her, and I could see by his face that he was impressed by how knowledgeable and skilled she was regarding all of his health needs.
When able, Joe allowed my daughter to be involved in certain aspects of her son's care. He also advocated for my daughter to other healthcare providers, and I could see that this made a difference in my daughter's demeanor, because she began to relax. Joe took his time and explained to us about labs, tests, and plans. After a brief time, we found ourselves back at UIHC in the ED and we were lucky to have Joe as our nurse again. Joe remembered our little man as well as our names, and his care was once again genuine and we knew we were in good hands.
A few weeks later, my grandson developed wounds around his trach due to a recent change in his trach straps because of his health insurance. As we traveled to Iowa City and while waiting in the ED, my daughter was worried that people would think she wasn't taking care of her son. She kept saying, "I don't know how this happened, Mom. I do his cares every day."
Then Joe came to the ED waiting room for him. The moment she saw Joe, her face relaxed knowing she wouldn't be misjudged or questioned. This, in turn, allowed me to relax.
My grandson even responded to Joe's voice. Joe provided exceptional care and compassion. While we encountered many helpful people, Joe stands out because he doesn't judge based on appearance, he provides exceptional care, and he always has encouraging words for my daughter.
Joe has no idea the difference he makes in our lives. It is because of him that we are able to fully focus on my grandson during his many recent ED visits. From a mother/grandmother, thank you, Joe, for the care, respect, and compassion you show to my family.