Ginger Checki
October 2022
Ginger
Checki
,
RN
Surgical Care - 4SW
SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - Madison
Madison
,
WI
United States

 

 

 

That my care was excellent is evident from my story, but it was Ginger’s compassion that struck me the most.
I was a patient at St. Mary’s for a parathyroidectomy. I am aware of the DAISY Award having worked as an RN for over 40 years. Ginger consistently demonstrated the attributes of clinical skill, compassionate care, exemplary service, and a commitment to excellence. Here is my story to support Ginger’s award:

I was admitted to 4SW in the late afternoon following a rather lengthy parathyroidectomy. Ginger was professional in her communication with me and my niece who was my support person. She (Ginger) completed her assessment (head to toe) and discussed our pain management. Later in the shift, she observed my neck had started to swell and there was evidence of a developing hematoma. She immediately called the PA and physician who came to examine me, marked the area of swelling, applied ice, and monitored me closely. Luckily the swelling necessitated an extra night of hospitalization but no return to surgery. That my care was excellent is evident from my story, but it was Ginger’s compassion that struck me the most. As she could see me get a little teary-eyed during the ins and outs of the doctors and PAs she said, “Did you get a hug today?” and proceed to hug me. What an example of kindness and compassion!