May 2023
Rebecca D.
Murray
,
RN
Vascular Center
Mayo Clinic - Rochester
Rochester
,
MN
United States
I believe Becca very likely saved my life. She pursued her instinct and training that my breathing was abnormal.
Beginning in late April 2022 I was a patient in the Vascular Department of the Gonda building. I had leg ulcers. All the nurses who treated me were professional and competent, however, Rebecca Murray was exceptional. Leg ulcers are slow to heal. When I was discouraged, she was positive and encouraging. She always explained what she was doing and why, and she was concerned that I was comfortable. She is very compassionate. Her leg wrappings were excellent. During this time, I was also struggling with labored breathing. I do suffer from shortness of breath sometimes, but I was blaming it on allergies and the extremely humid air. Although I never knew who I was going to see each week I was fortunate to have Becca for three consecutive weeks. At my appointment, she was extremely concerned. She recognized that my breathing was worse than in the previous few weeks. She excused herself and returned with an oximeter. After seeing the results, she called the NP to come to the treatment room. The NP also checked my oxygen blood level and called for an ambulance. When my leg dressing was completed, I was transported to St. Marys Hospital. I was admitted to the hospital with the principal diagnosis of sepsis and the secondary diagnosis of community-acquired pneumonia. I believe Becca very likely saved my life. She pursued her instinct and training that my breathing was abnormal. If she had not acted, I would have returned home where I live alone. Later I learned sepsis can escalate rapidly and can be fatal. Becca is my guardian angel. After being discharged from the hospital I returned for two additional appointments. I wanted to personally thank Becca, but she was unavailable.