Tracie was caring for a post-operative spine surgery patient in the PACU at MCNA. It was an extremely busy day which provided challenges to all staff due to a high acuity of the patients that day. One patient in particular required more 1:1 care and attention. Tracie was able to provide that care with the help and support of her peers. During the long stay in the PACU, Tracie remained in constant communication with the patient's family. She provided them with detailed updates regarding their mother. Tracie spoke to the patient with a calming voice that reassured the patient that things were ok while answering the numerous questions the patient had due to her extended stay in the PACU. Even with the patient saying, "I know I am bothering you but can you adjust my bed" or "I know I am bothering you but can I have an ice chip". Tracey responded with kindness and stated "you are not a bother". Throughout the day, Tracie was able to communicate with the surgeon, anesthesia and general medicine providing patient updates and test results. This allowed her to tailor the patient's care to provide the best care and positive outcomes. Late in the afternoon, the patient's family was able to visit at the bedside and they were extremely appreciative for the care Tracie and the team has been providing to their mother all day. They all laughed, giggled, smiled, joked and repeatedly thanked all staff involved in the care provided, Tracie, most especially.
Tracie's clinical skill and her compassionate care embody the kind of nurse that our patients, their families, and our staff recognize as an outstanding role model. Tracie developed a relationship with the family through her frequent updates to them throughout the day. They were so excited to finally meet her they thanked her over and over, and they even gave her a huge hug. While I was covering Tracie when she stepped away from the bedside to call report to the receiving facility, they were discussing with their mother how grateful they were that they decided to have surgery here and how fearful they were with the patient having surgery. They prayed that God would watch over their mother and how their prayers were answered. God had placed Tracie there to be their guardian angel.