May 2018
Amanda
Torres
,
RN, BSN
Labor and Delivery
Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital
Geneva
,
IL
United States
Amanda was my labor and delivery nurse during the birth of my first child. In a word, Amanda was exceptional. Her role as a medical professional was valuable enhanced by her compassion, encouragement, and kindness as a human. My daughter was born without the assistance of pain medication after 42 hours of contractions and very little sleep. In Amanda, I found a caring and thoughtful ally and incredible support. Throughout the end of my laboring, Amanda offered suggestions for comfort and excellent coordination with my doctor when recommendations for interventions were made. Amanda followed up to answer questions and support the doctor's recommendations while also working to make sure I felt heard and confident in my decisions. Something that was incredibly important during the overwhelming labor process that is generally so out of our control. Amanda and her fellow nurses monitored me closely, noticing signs the baby was progressing and ultimately encouraged me to deliver my daughter. After my daughter's birth when I had to be taken to the OR for additional sutures, she accompanied me with further reassurance and continuity during a very confusing and difficult time. Amidst the intensity of labor, there are no words to describe the overpowering force I felt in the delivery room as Amanda and her colleagues expertly supported me in my ability to deliver my baby when I questioned this power in myself. My experience at Delnor with nurses like Amanda makes me even more proud to be a woman, capable of the intense strength and power. She encouraged in me as well as the gentle kindness and compassion she gifted to me during my experience. It is the balance and capacity for both this strength and gentleness that truly make the team of nurses, doctors, and supporting staff at Delnor an inspiring one. Thank you for all that you do.