We were transferred to Naranda's care after departing the Endoscopy (Endo) Floor. Our son had just completed an Upper Endoscopy with probe insertion for a pH study. What is imperative to note is that he regained consciousness post-procedure and exhibited "text-book characteristics of emergence delirium" according to the emergency anesthesiologist that was called by the attending nurses at the time. He was beside himself, aggressive, and physically obstinate. While they debated courses of action on how to relieve him of his symptoms it was decided to transfer us from the Endo Floor to the floor where we met our angel, Naranda.
When we were transferred to Naranda, my son had already exhibited symptoms of emergence delirium for 45 mins. His father and I were fatigued and concerned after spending those 45 mins attempting to prevent him from injuring himself, others, and removing his "no-nos." Naranda assessed our situation, spoke to our son calmly, respectfully, and gave him time to adjust to his new surroundings (compassion, respect). She introduced herself and explained to my husband and me that what our son was experiencing was new for him, traumatic and that it wasn't uncommon. She assured us that she would ensure he received the time he needed to adjust and that she would be there every step of the way. She explained our treatment plan for our stay, our role in his care, and she also told us that we were the experts on our son and that any and all knowledge we could share that would better his experience at the hospital would be welcomed (respect, collaboration, shared leadership).
She gave us a tour of the floor and showed us where we could gain access to materials and toys that would support him in his stay (autonomy). She told us when we could expect her to check in on him for vitals and for rounds and encouraged our participation. She also said that we shouldn't hesitate to reach her via her phone number or the call button if we had any questions, concerns, or needs (trust). We knew without a doubt she would have the answers we needed and be available. Our Doctor was hoping to accomplish an upper GI prior to our discharge if our son was up for the scan. We expressed our request to have the scan completed prior to discharge and Naranda explained that oftentimes a procedure like an upper GI can be impacted if Anesthesia is still present in his system (research). She assured us she would follow up on the order and see what could be done once he was fully recovered (knowledge, synergy, evidence-based practice, integrity). Naranda's support, attentive care, and assurance resulted in the successful completion of his study (quality outcomes).
She reiterated the instructions of the study for the log in detail which was extremely beneficial as we received the initial instructions while he was raging and thrashing on the Endo floor where we could hardly hear the initial instructions from our nurse. In fact, due to Naranda's knowledge and experience in evaluating our circumstances, he was able to have the "no-no's" removed within the first two hours of our arrival under Naranda's care which made his study that much more comfortable (exemplary practice). True to her word, prior to our discharge, Naranda followed up on our request to fulfill our Doctor's intent and was able to get the order for the upper GI, get us on the schedule at a time that was perfect in timing our departure and completion of the study (ADVOCACY). Naranda never once questioned Endo's decision to bring our son to her care despite his being altered and resistant. She was the model of professionalism balanced with compassion and authority (professional development). She related to my husband and me as parents and instilled the confidence we needed at a time when our energy was low, and our spirit was wavering.
Our experience those 2 days was our first with Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and while we received top-notch care throughout our stay, Naranda was the shining star! After experiencing care under her skilled and knowledgeable hand we knew there was nowhere else we would seek care for our children from that day forward. Naranda is an asset to your organization and we are so thankful to have her care for our son.
At our time of discharge, we were relieved to be heading home and we valued her time as she had other assigned patients and were only able to convey a heartfelt thank you. In our short stay, we feel she truly invested in our son and the success of our treatment plan. We are so thankful.