June 2021
Dawn
Rishel
,
RN
Cardiac Telemetry North Tower 3
UHS Wilson Medical Center
Johnson City
,
NY
United States
I really was grateful for each day that my mother was in Dawn’s care. Her knowledge and nursing skills were very evident.
My 84-year-old mother was a patient for 2 weeks at Wilson Hospital. After 11 days, Mom’s condition was worse than ever with a high fever, pneumonia, a blood infection, and digestion issues. Each time I would arrive at the hospital, I never knew what to expect or what state my mother would be in. The situation was overwhelming and I was fearful for my mother’s life. Throughout her entire stay, Dawn was there, working diligently and helping my mother stay as comfortable as possible and explaining to me her issues and the ramifications of my mother’s procedures. She patiently described what tests were being run, for what reason, and never made my inquiries seem bothersome or an inconvenience. Her utmost concern was for my mother’s well-being. Dawn was also amazing at answering my phone calls and providing pertinent information when I could not physically be at the hospital. I really was grateful for each day that my mother was in Dawn’s care. Her knowledge and nursing skills were very evident. For example, one evening my mother’s fever spiked extra high and she began vomiting and had a bowel accident. Dawn cheerfully cleaned her up, contacted the resident on call who adjusted my mother’s medications, and took the time to adjust the cooling gel blanket that had been placed on my mom. Mom needed the blanket to help reduce her fever but had begun shivering uncontrollably. Dawn was innovative and placed the blanket under my mother instead of on top of her which worked! I cannot say how grateful I am for someone like Dawn who truly displays what a tireless, devoted, and passionate nurse can do to prioritize a patient’s well-being. She made a lasting impression on me and stood out as an exemplary nurse willing to go above and beyond the normal call of duty.