I recently had abdominal surgery at Jefferson Hospital, and I was moved to the 13th-floor pavilion on the following day. Lauren was my day shift nurse for three days and was always courteous, helpful, and cheerful. The phone in my room didn't work and Lauren loaned me her hospital phone on more than one occasion so I could call my wife. The ventilation in my room was cold and couldn't be adjusted. Lauren solved this by putting a large towel over the unit. I learned that I could be discharged a day earlier than planned. This necessitated quick travel arrangements by my wife and Lauren helped by taking calls from her. By the afternoon, Lauren came to my door to say that I was going home. Lauren carefully went over my discharge papers with me and helped me to get my things together. She then accompanied me and carried my suitcase as I was wheeled to the discharge area where she met my wife. Lauren also came to the curb outside where we said our goodbyes.
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My mother had just undergone a Whipple procedure. Lauren was caring and very patient with my very anxious family and mother with all her explanations. My mother did not want to leave the hospital because she said she "felt safe" in the care of the TJUH staff, particularly Lauren. Her enthusiasm for her profession really rejuvenated my view of nursing in the current times of managed care. She stated to us that she is always "excited to come to work." I hope her infectious energy and spirit will inspire other nurses to care for patients in the way that she did for my mother.
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Lauren was friendly, energetic, and kept encouraging me to walk the hallway to speed up my healing process. She truly cares about the welfare of every patient. Thank you, Lauren!