I was at CPRMC for a lumbar puncture. Not a big deal for me, as I have been through many procedures for a spinal injury. One could say it was "just another day at the office" for me.
Though I have never had a bad experience at CPRMC, this procedure was handled extraordinarily better, from my first contact with Bethany Townsend, who had contacted me for pre-op approximately 4 days prior. Not only did she explain everything thoroughly, she answered my questions just as well. Bethany was super courteous and friendly.
The day of the procedure, Bethany stopped by my room, introduced herself and was very pleasant. Before rolling me away, she made sure my wife was comfortable and took care of any last minute items she may have needed. Bethany and I visited all the way to imaging as if we had been best friends for some time.
During the procedure, there were some uncomfortable moments (I was not under sedation) and Bethany stood at the head of bed in a very comforting manner. She visited with me, assuring me things were going well and the procedure was nearly complete. At one time, she even grabbed my hand in comfort, as my wife would have done had she been there.
The "bed ride" back to my room consisted of more conversation with Bethany. I even asked her, "Are you always this happy?" She responded that she was, and I could tell she was being honest.
When we arrived back to my room, Bethany immediately went to the waiting area to get my wife. Bethany returned, unable to find my wife. She attempted to call my wife from the room, but the phone was not cooperating. Instead of wasting time, Bethany pulled her personal cell phone from her pocket and called my wife's cell phone.
My wife and I both work in healthcare and "making a difference" is a motto we both share. Bethany made a huge difference that day, simply being the person she is. My procedure was a simple one, yet I was treated as if it were a critical situation. That didn't matter to Bethany as I feel she is remarkable with all patients, minor or critical. Bethany's smile kept my morning bright, her compassion eased the pain, and her hospitality was beyond expected.
Living in the world of scrubs attire, I can also appreciate her appearance of non-faded, matching, well-kept uniform. For me, that says lots for who she is.
Bethany is deserving of the DAISY Award. I know she would be humbled and happy to know she was highly appreciated.