I have been employed by St. Tammany Health System for 24 years and presently serve on its executive leadership team. I was admitted to the hospital suddenly for treatment of acute bacterial pneumonia and stayed in the hospital for 12 days. Due to the severity of my illness, I was afraid and very concerned about my clinical outcome. Each and every person who cared for me was exceptional.
Ashley Rivere RN made a lasting impression on me and my family and friends. Ashley was my advocate - she coached and counseled me through some challenging times. For example, as I approached a 3rd chest CT scan in 3 days I did not want to undergo another one because of the pain and challenges I was having with breathing. I considered refusing it and told Ashley I was not going to go. I remember that Ashley sat next to me and with empathy, compassion, and a bit of spunk encouraged me to have the test done. I remember her words - "this really is not an option - please reconsider". It was a moment I will never forget. (And yes thankfully I had the CT scan - it provided important information for my care team.) Ashley engaged professionally with my attending physicians and her clinical assessment skills are remarkable. She worked tirelessly to help me and encourage me in my journey to recovery. Ashley stayed late and came to work on one of her well-deserved days off to care for me. When she was not on duty she called to check on me. Ashley genuinely cares about her patients and others. In her practice of nursing Ashley Rivere embodies professionalism, compassion, energy, and skill. St. Tammany Health System is fortunate to have her as part of our team. She will touch many lives in her career and help many patients in their journey to recovery.