March 2021
Kristi
Smith
,
BSN, RN
Intensive Care Unit
UnityPoint Health - Meriter
She was a nurse to both my brother and me during the call. When I hung up, I felt proud to be a nurse, and, fortunate that Nurse Kristi was there to take such good care of my brother.
My brother D was admitted to Meriter. He had COVID, and, underlying health issues. He became more ill and was placed in ICU and on a ventilator the following week. My sister-in-law was afraid to see D. I am a retired nurse and I told my sister-in-law I would see D for her. A FaceTime call was arranged. Nurse Kristi was my brother's nurse that day. When she held the phone up to D, I must have gasped and covered my mouth when I saw him. Nurse Kristi quietly said, "I know he looks really sick, let me show you what I am doing for D today." Nurse Kristi proceeded to show me the vent, the IV fluids, and all the machines he was hooked up to. She explained each one and patiently answered my questions. We had a frank discussion about D and his ability to be the person he was when he arrived at the hospital. The really impressive thing for me is that Nurse Kristi had met my brother before he was intubated. She described him as a sweet man who was quick to crack a joke; she was right-on in describing him. Because of my visit with Nurse Kristi, I was able to get our family to meet and discuss what D might want going forward. These were difficult discussions, but Nurse Kristi opened that door for us. She was a nurse to both my brother and me during the call. When I hung up, I felt proud to be a nurse, and, fortunate that Nurse Kristi was there to take such good care of my brother. That said, D was in Meriter for 5-6 weeks and he received excellent care. I realize what a complex case he was and how good nursing care kept him comfortable and free from pain. Thank you. D passed away and some of my family were able to be with him when he passed. Thank you to all of you for your care and kindness. Especially Nurse Kristi, who helped me more than she will ever know.