Being a patient can be a particularly vulnerable time for people. When we are normally able to meet our own needs, we find it difficult and scary to be stuck in a bed, unsure of what is going to happen next and feeling a lot of pain.
I was a patient for an outpatient procedure this month and Heather was my post-op nurse. She was kind, efficient, knowledgeable, and caring. What really struck me though, was when they were preparing to discharge me, and my pain began to unexpectedly spike. Normally after this kind of procedure, one would not expect a significant increase in pain. However, when Heather came into the room to discharge me, she noticed that I looked in pain and my blood pressure had significantly increased. I told her I thought I would be okay until I went to the pharmacy, then home. Fortunately, rather than rushing me out the door so she could do other things, Heather told me it would be best if we treated my pain before I left. Then she assured me that I was not inconveniencing her, or anyone else by staying long enough to control my pain. She gave me the appropriate medications and within 30 minutes, I was feeling significantly better. When nurses advocate for their patients, I think of them advocating in dealing with other medical professionals or family members. However, Heather advocated for me, to me. I would have tried to "tough-it-out" and I would have lost control of my pain, causing a very difficult afternoon. Heather prioritized my well-being over her own personal convenience and made a big difference to me. She is an incredible nurse at all times, which I know because I have worked alongside her before. Now I know from a patient's point of view, that she is everything a nurse should be and do.