All of my Surgery nurses are extraordinary and make a difference in the lives of patients every day, but today I would like to highlight Ms. Rutkowski. Since Sylwia has been working in Podiatry both patients and staff have commented on the excellent care she has provided and her advocacy for our patients. I will highlight two examples of her clinical expertise and compassionate care.
Mr. S. is a 94 y/o veteran, a WWII purple heart recipient, Prisoner of War, who is wheelchair bound and has a legal guardian. He registered for care in the VA a few months ago. When he came to the Podiatry clinic, Ms. Rutkowski was surprised to hear that the patient has been seen by so many providers and in so many facilities yet his feet were in such poor condition. The patient had areas on his feet where access skin was 1-2cm thick, dry, and cracking callouses. Additionally, the patient had multiple pressure ulcers on both feet. No offloading shoes or devices were present and the patient could not identify that he had received any specific treatments in progress for his feet. He stated that he only had his feet soaked a couple of times. Ms. Rutkowski then initiated nursing care and provided soaks to both feet which took her over an hour. On the right foot, all 4 toenails were so moist and infected with fungus that they "fell off" while she was providing care. The patient was amazed at how much dead skin was removed from his feet. Ms. Rutkowski additionally, ensured that she cleaned the wounds with betadine and put dressings on both feet and put on blue heel lift boots. Ms. Rutkowski discussed the patient's care with the legal guardian and social service in the facility. The patient is now being seen by Podiatry on a regular basis to ensure his pressure ulcers are healing.
Mr. H. was sitting outside Podiatry when Ms. Rutkowski noticed he was having difficulty staying awake. When she went to talk to him he demonstrated altered mental status with slurred speech. Concerned about his condition, she took control of the scooter he was driving and escorted him to the ED. The patient was seen by the Triage nurse and was thereafter admitted to the ICU. The patient had been discharged from the hospital less than a week ago and had been seen in Primary Care earlier in the day. Ms. Rutkowski's clinical expertise and compassionate caring ensured that this veteran received the assistance needed.
She is a role model for her colleagues of patient-centered care, service excellence, and clinical expertise and is most deserving of this recognition.