Kerri was one of my grandfather's nurses in the ICU for aspiration, pneumonia, diabetes, pulmonary fibrosis and heart issues. Being a special education teacher, I am sensitive to my grandfather's struggles and his interactions with others. He has some cognitive differences, tends to get a bit cantankerous, is hard of hearing and has vision problems. Therefore, communicating with him and getting him to be compliant can be a challenge.
Kerri is the first nurse I've seen work with him that has taken the time to listen, understand what he is trying to say and make sure he understands what is happening. When trying to get him to understand how to use the incentive spirometer, Kerri and I both worked to get him to understand he needed to suck in instead of blow out. When our efforts were not successful, she had the idea to communicate with him through writing. Although writing didn't always eliminate the communication barrier, this helped him to understand what was happening, feel more informed, and more motivated to work to improve his condition, as if having a difficult time breathing wasn't enough!
Although I am writing this at the end of his first day in the ICU, I walked away this afternoon feeling like Kerri was part of our family. She went out of her way to explain things to me in a kind, friendly way. I felt like I was an important part of his care team, and that she really cared about making sure grandpa and his family were safe, comfortable, and informed about his condition and treatment.
My grandfather can be a very difficult patient due to the challenges I mentioned before. It takes a special person to be able to work so well with him and Kerri went above and beyond to close the communication barrier and make him and his family feel like they were an important part of his care team. I am impressed with Kerri and her service and care.