The ASHL team has been phenomenal in exuding the Ascension Mission while responding to the needs of the individuals we serve with such compassion. It is incredible to be a part of a team that clearly serves from the heart. Over and over I talk with patients and receive information noting that we are a diamond in the rough because the entire team is knowledgeable AND kind. I often hear, they are so helpful and treat me like family.
In the recent growth of our skilled nursing patient population, we have encountered an increase in homeless patients. This patient population has different needs from nursing staff than other populations. It is more than being knowledgeable and effective in delivering quality care compassionately, it is understanding a way of life that is often chosen. Trying to change that lifestyle can be considered intrusive. More than other populations, this group wants to be accepted and deserves compassionate care without sympathy. They often keep people at a distance. This team has worked relentlessly and tirelessly to meet the needs of this population. Selfless acts are daily occurrences that touch people and make them feel special. We now have a small clothes closet supplied by team member donations, we have had a snack drawer with snacks supplied by team member donations for a young homeless man who asked for a snack multiple times daily for six weeks, and if a patient asks for something special the team finds a way to get it. I hear things like, "I'm going to the soda machine to get a root beer. Do we have access to Gardettos?, I'll go to the convenience store on my lunch break". "I bought tamales today from Chata's Tamale kitchen because patient X loves tamales". "Did you know that X bought dinner for patient X because he hasn't been eating well and thought a Chili Relleno sounded good". Team members have taken laundry home to wash. I've seen a team member help with dreadlocks maintenance because it was COVID times and we had no visitors, team members have donated nail polish, hair care products, and makeup. Team members have supported caring for service animals by buying food, etc. while their owners were hospitalized. Team members have sat with patients and connected with them on a deeper level to support their recovery. Team creativity to obtain wheelchair accessories to improve mobility was a remarkable victory for a patient. I could continue, but this nomination would get too long.
Almost every day in our discharge phone calls patients recognize the team. Here are a few recent examples in July and August 2020 of statements of recognition for the entire team:
"Dr. Tobar and all of the nurses were great!"
"All of the nurses were just awesome!!"
"Everyone was wonderful and took such great care of me!"
One patient was thrilled with her care that she received at the hospital and wanted to recognize all the nursing staff, Wonderful hospital, doctors, and nurses. She stated that she was treated very well and always feels at home when she is here in our hospital, I really enjoyed myself.
"Everyone was very nice, you all did a wonderful job and everyone was great!"
"I had such a wonderful experience; everyone was wonderful and it made me completely change my opinion about that hospital. Best Hospital experience I have had in the area and I have been to a lot of hospitals."
"They were all wonderful! My mom has been in several times in the last 6 months or so, and she also broke her hip in November 2019 and had to have a hip replacement. Everyone was kind, helpful, and patient, not to mention knowledgeable and thorough. I can't thank you all enough! So, as you can see, I can't nominate one without nominating all. Keep up the good work. God Bless you all."
"I cannot single out one nurse because all of the nurses have been rockstars. They go above and beyond every day. They have been caring, understanding, and encouraging. They enter my room with a smile and a cheerful greeting. Each one of them is knowledgeable about my meds. I feel safe here. I couldn't ask for better care. I want them all to know they have earned a special place in my heart. God bless you all."
As you can see, this team not only provides quality care, but they also touch people's lives by individualizing their needs and providing more than healthcare. They provide kindness and faithfully serve. It is truly something to be a part of a team that is so amazing. They have a passion for caring holistically for others that is beyond anything I have ever been a part of in my life.