Our Father transferred from 3 South to the Medical Intensive Care Unit for Bipap therapy in the middle of the night. Danielle Odell was the nurse caring for him in MICU. When we arrived she was very patient and explained the situation to our family in terms my mother (who has dementia) could understand. She was very kind and caring and answered our multiple questions. (Being nurses, we had multiple thoughts and she answered all of our questions). We were glad when we found out she would also care for him the next night.
At 2:30 am our father removed his BiPAP and decided he did not want any further treatment. Danielle was calm and reassuring with my father, me and my sister as we all talked to him regarding his decision. Despite multiple attempts to persuade him to at least put oxygen on, my dad stood by his decision. Danielle made sure he understood that his oxygen level was low and that he could die.
She evaluated that he was alert and oriented and aware of his decision. She completed this with respect and dignity toward my father. She was professional and caring. She brought in the resident and it was decided to consult hospice in the morning.
She supported our family as they all started to arrive at the hospital. She even went to another unit to get my father chocolate ice cream when he requested it. We commend her professionalism during this difficult time and the respect she showed our family. She is a fantastic nurse.
My father passed away surrounded by most of his family. We are forever grateful that Danielle cared for him and supported him and his family in his decision.