My sisters and I were relieved when dad came through his bypass surgery so well. However, that relief quickly turned into worry, stress, and many sleepless nights and days because of dad's severe reaction to anesthesia. He was diagnosed with surgical delirium and ICU psychosis. Dad had severe confusion, agitation, and hallucinations. Initially, he did not recognize any of his family members and was unable to recall simple information. During this time, my sisters and I came in contact with so many wonderful doctors and nurses, but Drew Ballard really stood out.
Drew was dad's nurse in the CCU each night. We were requested to stay with dad in the CCU to help keep him calm. The nights were always the most difficult but Drew always intervened when dad was unable to be calm. Throughout all of this, Drew remained compassionate and made sure that dad received the best care. However, we were most touched after being transferred to the floor, Drew came to check on dad and say hello several times. Drew was called upon once again when dad became so confused that he would not take his medications from his primary nurse. Drew willingly came and talked to dad for 3-4 minutes and dad agreed to take his medications. True teamwork! Thanks for all you did Drew and thanks for being an outstanding nurse!