My stepdaughter was involved in a violent sexual assault. We started out at another ED and later came to UK for the forensic rape kit. I entered the ER and went to the admission window and explained the situation. The lady went and got a wheelchair and met us at the front door. My stepdaughter was taken back right away and did not spend any time in the waiting room. My husband and her biological mother were the only ones allowed back in the room, which was completely fine. Her stepfather, brother and I waited in the lobby from 1:30 pm until about 9:30 pm when her biological mother came and got me. She had a complete breakdown (screaming, crying, cussing) and was asking for me. I remained with her until we left the ER around 11 pm at night.
I want to recognize Elizabeth Ober, RN for going above and beyond our expectations. She was the main nurse that cared for our daughter in our family's darkest hour. She had never performed a rape kit before but took her time making sure everything was done correctly to preserve the evidence from the trauma. She laughed with us and cried with us. She was focused on making sure she got the specialized care that she needed. Whatever she asked for food wise, she had within minutes. Elizabeth also stayed more than 3 hours past the end of her shift to make sure she had continuity of care in this emotionally charged time. Once the forensic test began Elizabeth never left the room. She did not leave to go to the bathroom or a break in order to keep the integrity of the tests and clothes collected. When we left at 11 pm she was still in the room waiting for the police to come and collect the samples. I cannot put into words what her compassion and excellent nursing skills meant to my family during this awful process. I am very pleased with the outstanding care we got in the ER and also want to recognize all the staff that helped, but especially Elizabeth who made the difference.