In the past 6 months, I have been privileged to witness the exceptional care provided by the nursing staff at Northern Inyo Healthcare District. I had the pleasure of observing the compassionate care the NIHD team provides in its nursing units, as my mom was cared for by Emergency, Surgery, PACU and OP Infusion, Med Surge and ICU teams. As I reflect on the care my mom has received, one individual specifically stands out; Dee Dee Costello, RN.
My mother felt a snap in her right hip/leg after stepping off of a small ledge; she immediately experienced extreme pain and was not able to put any pressure on her leg. My father and I rushed her to the ED for evaluation. Dee Dee happened to be working that afternoon. She could tell instantly that my mom was in pain and extreme discomfort. Dee Dee gently aided my mom as she changed into a hospital gown, taking care to not rush her.
This was not the first time I had seen Dee Dee provide patient care, but it was the first time that I truly appreciated her tenderness in caring. She took her time and attempted to make my mom as comfortable as possible. She checked back frequently, trying to help my mom reposition for pain control to the best of her ability. After my mom had been in the ED for several hours, the tests and x-rays ordered did not reveal the cause of her pain. As the doctor began to prepare discharge, Dee Dee became a patient advocate. She could tell that my family was in distress with the amount of pain my mom was experiencing and began presenting suggestions as to what may help. She attempted to fit crutches for her, which was unsuccessful due to the many back surgeries she has had.
Dee Dee heard our pleas and concerns about my mom going home without the ability to put weight on her right leg. She advocated by asking if there was anything else that could be done or suggested before discharging her. She shared our concerns about sending her home in her current state with the provider. While she was not able to fix the pain, Dee Dee was a support. She empathized, she comforted, she advocated.
No one could have foreseen the next six months of hospital stays and surgeries that night but knowing that Dee Dee took the time to listen and support our family had a lasting impact. When I asked my mom about sharing a small piece of her journey and nominating Dee Dee she responded without hesitation "Absolutely!"
In the days and months following my mom's discharge, Dee Dee would follow up wanting to know how things were going. Her heart for her patients shows daily, even after they have discharged. My mom is just one of many patients Dee Dee has cared for, however, I have spoken with many and heard story after story of how Dee Dee goes above and beyond for her patients on a regular basis.
Northern Inyo Healthcare District is lucky to have exceptional nursing staff, specifically individuals like Dee Dee who exemplify what it means to be an extraordinary nurse.