Elaine is a relatively new RN, but one would never know it by the measure of her clinical skills, grace, and finesse she possesses and demonstrates on a daily basis. Elaine and I share many of the same patients and, oftentimes, I end up having to bring her a patient (from the I-COPE-shot-clinic) who needs a medical evaluation and care without being able to give advanced notice. These patients are often not at their best, mentally or physically, and their needs are frequently many. Elaine always, and I do mean always, graciously accepts report and renders compassionate, expert nursing care to these patients. She is professional, efficient, and so very kind to our patients and I hear back from these patients on a regular basis; they adore Elaine and speak continually of her caring manner and skill. The most common remarks I hear are "Elaine treats me like I mean something" and "I trust Elaine". These may not seem like the most amazing of compliments at first glance, but when you realize that many of our behavioral health patients in continuing care have been through more than one system and over a period of years, you begin to understand that their perception of meaning something to someone else and the establishment of trust are hugely important things and a very big deal, indeed. The fact that Elaine is able to establish such a strong rapport with her patients in I-COPE speaks volumes about her as a person. That her patients trust her implicitly also speaks loudly as to her clinical skill. As a veteran nurse, I am equally impressed with her skills and greatly admire her dedication to the art of nursing as well as her devotion to her patients. I know that when I must take a patient to I-COPE for medical care, they will receive the absolute finest, efficient, coordinated, and compassionate care available. Perhaps the biggest compliment I can pay to Elaine is that I would be honored to have her as my nurse.
Elaine is a truly amazing nurse who works in a somewhat unique setting with very unique patients. If you haven't stopped by the UPC and met Elaine and checked out the I-COPE Clinic, you really should. The work that is done there for our mentally ill population is a beautiful thing.