My arrival at Mass General's ER was filled with so many memories as I had taken my husband there a year and a half earlier and he died from a brain bleed and seizures. Now myself very sick, I remembered the anxiety and outcome of my dear husband's battle and feared for myself.
Kate and I met on my first day, after being evaluated in the ER. She listened to me when I told her of my fear of the hospital and my missing my husband after 50 years of marriage. She looked at pictures on my iPhone and was sympathetic and reassuring that I wasn't going to die from my infection. Kate was clear about all aspects of my treatment, explaining things clearly but also inviting me to ask my questions and share my feelings.
Kate has kind eyes that communicate confidence and knowledge. Her smile is beautiful, and she approaches each question I have with a sure statement. When my anxiety rises, she is very observant, and slows down to acknowledge my concern, and gives a straight response that makes sense and brings my breath back to normal. She seems like a longtime professional.
Every morning when the "rounding team" of professionals arrive at my bed, she is always there, off to the side, listening, and absorbing information. This is an outstanding nurse, who has learned well and is a terrific role model for other nurses. Thank you, Kate!