Bariatric surgery can be a difficult decision in the life of a young woman. Can you imagine being 22 years old, 5 feet 4 inches, and weigh over 500 pounds? When this case was booked, and the information came across the computer with a calculated BMI of approximately 86, Maureen realized the challenge this would be. Her number one priority was not only in providing safe care, but included was providing care to a young woman who deserved dignified, respectful care. Maureen made our entire surgical services team know what we were going to be challenged with in this case. She notified the nursing supervisors, and she sought out information about our stretchers and beds to make sure they could safely accommodate this young woman’s size. Her concern was not only if the stretcher and bed could accommodate her weight, but the entire size of this woman, and do it in a dignified manner before the patient arrived, NOT wait until the woman arrived on the day of surgery. 

With the assistance of the nursing supervisor, it was determined that we would order a bariatric bed that could be used to transport the patient from Pre-Op to the OR, and then from OR to PACU and, ultimately her inpatient room assigned for post-op recovery and care As planned, the bed arrived prior to the day of surgery and was utilized throughout the woman’s stay as planned. The woman was also thrilled that she was able to have her “own pillow” to provide her some comfort during her stay. 

Of note, Maureen was NOT scheduled to work the day of this woman’s surgery. However, there was a staffing need on the day that Maureen signed up to fill part of it. Maureen’s shift ended before the woman arrived, but she stayed to care for her in the pre-op area and did not leave until she was transported to the bariatric bed.  Shortly after Maureen left that day, I received a text from her to remind me to ensure the patient’s personal pillow was used in PACU as it was important to the patient. 

Dignity and respect are such an important part of what we do as nurses. We live in a world of social media, of pictures of perfection (perfect faces, perfect bodies, and perfect world). Maureen made sure that this young woman heard us say: We are here for you; this is an important day for you as it is the first day of your journey. We are proud of you for making this decision. We CARE about YOU!

It is because of Maureen’s actions and interactions with this woman that she felt cared for, important, and that she had made the right decision. I’m proud of Maureen and of the care she provided to this young woman! And I am proud that I participated in her care that started with Maureen and her extraordinary example of excellence in nursing care!