Holly was in charge of my pre-op (hysterectomy) prep. She was friendly and had a calming demeanor as she got me ready. She explained everything she was going to do and asked a lot of questions to encourage conversation which helped distract me from otherwise potentially awkward prep. As she listened to my comments, she reassured me that I was doing the right thing (by having surgery) and that I was in the right place.
She asked if I was warm enough and then indulged me when I said I was, but could I see how the airflow gown worked anyway (LOL-very fun and interesting).
When IV insertion did not go well (not her fault-my veins are small) she chose to get someone else to help (shows humility). As that nurse was inserting the IV into my arm – Holly held my other hand and told me to look at her (I had been tensing up) and helped me focus on breathing and relaxing.
Finally, as another nurse was about to walk me to surgery, I looked at Holly as I left the room. She noticed I had tears in my eyes and she quickly rubbed my arm and told me everything was going to be ok.
I am a healthy 50-year-old and rarely go to the doctor, much less the hospital. To have such a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate nurse was truly a blessing. It is difficult to put into words the appreciation I feel for her work. I imagine surgery is always stressful but Holly was able to put me at ease and remain calm. She is truly a credit to her profession.