Ann Geyer, one of our ACLs, is an exceptional nurse. Her dedication to her work, her patients, and her team is obvious with her actions day in and day out. As a leader on the floor, she sets a wonderful example for all. She takes extra time to get to know her patients and what makes them tick. She has a special connection to each and every one of them.
One patient decided against getting a pacemaker and she took the time to walk the unit and then sit with the patient to try to understand why she made that decision. Ann explained to her all the risks and benefits of the pacemaker in order for the patient to understand fully the decision she was about to make. Another patient on the unit currently is very young and very sick. He has had an extensive workup and unfortunately, we have very few answers. Ann has noticed he is slowly getting more and more depressed, so she immediately called after huddle to put in a request that he have a private room with a better view.
Every day she does something, whether big or small, to make a difference in the lives of her patients. One of the best examples of her compassion that comes to mind is last winter. We had a gentleman in who was ill but also the primary caregiver for his grandchildren. The family did not have much, so she took it upon herself to gather the necessary information, so the unit could adopt his family for Christmas. He was discharged before the holiday and thanks to Ann, the family had a wonderful Christmas.
I could go on and on about this nurse. She is more than deserving of this recognition. I have only worked with her for the past 9 months, but she has worked here almost 20 years and has been this way her entire career. Compassionate, caring, and always going the extra mile.