Tammy Killian
July 2013
Tammy
Killian
,
RN
TCU
Norton Healthcare
Louisville
,
KY
United States

 

 

 

Being out of town and being hospitalized causes extra stress. When my husband became weak, chest pain, shortness of air, Tammy rushed to the bedside. She remained calm and stayed at my husband's bedside regardless of how many pages or calls she received. She kept the MD updated and we felt we had a true advocate! My husband was taken to Cardiac Cath Lab; I had just left the floor. When I returned I asked Tammy where the Lab was located. She was very tried, her shift was over. However, Tammy said, " I will walk you there."

She took me to the lab prior to her leaving. She turned around with compassion in her fatigued face and said, "I will keep you and your husband in my prayers." She then placed her arms around me and hugged me as I wept. She knew because she cares and knew I needed that touch, that compassion. Tammy represented what Florence Nightingale desired for all nurses: Compassion, knowledge, and being a patient advocate in a holistic manner. She has allowed me to stay calm on one of the worse days.