I was hospitalized at WakeMed with congestive heart failure. I was introduced to Nurse Andrea Perea the morning after I was admitted. She was my day nurse throughout my stay at the hospital.
Along with her attentive care, she began an education process that made all the difference in my approach to my condition. Over the week I was in the hospital she introduced me to the importance of monitoring my symptoms and measuring things 'going in, and things going out' through a combination of videos, literature, and most importantly, her mood and manner. She took the time to talk to me about the details of my condition and my progress on a regular basis. She used this as an opportunity to ask pertinent questions (e.g. alleged alcohol consumption), give encouragement, and even administer the occasional 'quiz'.
Her approach is so genuine, it becomes irresistible. Her method helped me understand her logic, it helped me see the value in the advice I was being offered, it made me want to 'give it a try'. So, when I got home, I began to keep a journal of my weight, my salt consumption, my fluid intake and output, my medications, and my blood pressure and heart rate. I have recently added calories.
Measuring and keeping track of health-related things was never my strong suit. Andrea's ability to talk me into it still amazes me. The benefits of her council and advice are proving themselves to me. While keeping the journal, I noticed the consequences of my incremental actions over time. I look forward to continuing on the path she started me on.
I always felt that Nurse Andrea was my advocate while I was in the hospital. I trust her medical skill, but it is her holistic approach to compassionate care that is making the long-term difference for me. I look upon her as an outstanding role model for other nurses, and for myself.