Recently, I was able to watch and listen to Cherry Merrill give care in the Adult Critical Care Unit. Cherry is never in a rush no matter how small the task is that the patient may request. Positioning in a bed, scratching the patient’s dry, itchy feet, sitting and explaining a procedure that the patient is scheduled for the next day. She makes sure the patient is so comfortable when she leaves the room, that the patient falls asleep for a quick nap and doesn’t even know that she fell asleep!
Scurrying off to the next room as the patient is moaning for help, Cherry once again repositions this patient, offers him food and water. The elderly man doesn’t like what is on the tray. Cherry, not giving up, offers the man a shake. With his frail hands he is able to suck the straw and tell her it is ok. With a smile and a touch to the man’s hand, she asks gently what else she may do for him before she exits the room.
She cleans the nursing station of its clutter and calls a doctor for medicine changes. She never shows signs of stress or hurriedness. She stays positive and focused on her patient’s needs.
I am proud to work with Cherry Merrill, she shows the same care to each individual each day that she steps through the Schumpert doors.