When I came in I was in extreme chest pain and passed out in the lobby. I remember waking up in an ED room, still in pain and unable to open my eyes to see the commotion around me, but I could hear. I continuously heard a voice telling me I was going to be okay.
I am a nurse myself. The experience was truly terrifying. I remember only a few things: I couldn't open my eyes, I kept trying to tell the staff what was wrong with me, and this voice that would constantly reassure me that I was okay. She said often, "it's okay, honey,", "I know, honey", "you're safe, everything's going to be okay, honey".
Hours later, when I stabilized, I could open my eyes to see my environment. I saw my husband sitting in a chair and a young blonde nurse smiling at me with a name badge that said, Marissa. When she spoke to me, I recognized the voice as the one I continuously heard telling me everything is going to be okay.
Marissa was the 'anchor in my storm'. Hearing her voice over and over gave me not only reassurance but also gave me something to focus on instead of the pain and the fear of the event.
I've had this experience three times, and even though no one can tell me why this happens to me. Mercy Hospital treated me with the kind of care and professionalism I would expect to find and Marissa made a lasting impression on the quality of care and compassion I received.
She is an asset to your team, both compassionate and professional, she is one of the best nurses I've come in contact with as a patient.