Joanne Mutz
September 2020
Joanne
Mutz
,
RN
Inpatient
Ascension Saint Alexius Medical Center
Hoffman Estates
,
IL
United States

 

 

 

I felt relief knowing that she was there and our son was in good hands.

Our son, "M," was admitted to the pediatric floor. We could not be happier with the care we received in the Emergi-kids Pediatric Floor and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. "M" ended up in the PICU because his rhinovirus worsened, and he needed increased monitoring. The nurse for the first three days was Joanne. Due to the initial scare of my son's condition and the move to intensive care, my caution as a mother heightened. However, Joanne did everything a nurse should do: explain, update, educate, and care for my son with compassion. On the 3rd day in PICU, "M's" condition gave me the scare of my life. He threw up the feeding tube that was giving him nutrition through his nose. The sound of his cry was frightening and unforgettable. Joanne approached him to assess the situation, and I saw the concern in her face. The quickness of her response left me feeling shocked and frightened, knowing the immediacy of the situation as a nurse myself, yet combined with my fears as a parent. Ushered out of the room, I did not know what was going to happen. Joanne was calm, reactive, and knowledgeable. I felt relief knowing that she was there and our son was in good hands. After our son was assessed and plans were made, I was brought back to the room. Joanne explained what had happened, what they did, and the next steps moving forward. I feel "M's" outcome could have been very different that day if it were not for Joanne's quick actions. The way she treated my son and me was comforting. Thank you for every ounce you put in for our son that day. I will forever remember you Joanne. I also want to add that your approach in the emergent situation that day truly moved me as a nurse! I am even more aware of the importance of staying calm yet responding quickly to help keep family at ease!