Since my surgery, I have been in so much pain. The night shift came and went, and Talia Kogan was advised of my situation. Throughout the day, my pain got worse and I even threw up on my bed and the floor. I called Talia several times for many reasons and each time she came into my room with a smile. I felt so bad, but each time she made me feel special. Not once did I feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. She talked with me and did not rush off because someone else called her. She explained everything so clearly that I understood it. She helped me to realize that I had surgery yesterday and that I was not going to be at 100%.
I told Talia that she reminded me of my sister-in-law and her response was, "I hope it's in a good way." I told her "Yes, I love her. She is caring and has the most wonderful aura about her." Talia showed me just how much she cared about my well-being. I did not feel like another assignment, I felt like I was the assignment! She was Great!
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Every person experiences anxiety and pain differently and Talia understands that whatever the patient says she is feeling that is what it is, thereby honoring the American Pain Society's Patient Rights to Pain Relief:
Providing information and answers to questions about pain and pain relief
Feeling their clinician cares for them
Supporting the patient through their pain and associated symptoms
Addressing the patient in this manner demonstrated true compassion. By definition, compassion is an inherent quality or trait that enables a nurse to discern a need, provide comfort and help a patient feel safe and valued like she was cared for by a family member that she dearly loved. Talia was an exemplar of this type of genuine compassion. She was acknowledged by this grateful patient for emulating the entire list of DAISY attributes:
Making a special connection with the patient
Including the patient/family in the plan of care
Educating the patient and their family
Collaborating to meet the patient's unique needs
Going above and beyond the "call of duty"
Providing individualized, compassionate care
Living out the hospital vision of excellence.
Talia entered the nursing profession with gusto. She is a strong patient advocate, excited about taking on any new challenge. As a new nurse, Talia overflows with potential. According to her manager, patient's rave about the care she provides. She is frequently mentioned by name on surveys and during nurse leader rounding conversations. Her colleagues appreciate her bubbly, positive attitude. She aspires for higher education in the nursing profession and becoming certified in several different specialties. The team on 4-West are incredibly thankful that Talia chose VPH to be her career designation.