August 2023
Shirley A
Lemons
,
RN, CNOR
WC Operating Rooms
Texas Children's Hospital
Houston
,
TX
United States
Shirley greeted her with a smile, grabbed a chair, took a seat close to Mom, took her hand, and, with a kind and compassionate spirit, began a conversation with her about her concerns and how she was feeling.
Around 12:30 PM on Monday, a Mom checked her child in for dental surgery at the West Campus OR. While sitting in the waiting room during the surgery, Mom began "having a panic attack" (Mom's words). She was experiencing a lot of anxiety about having her child in surgery, crying and stating that she couldn't feel her hands. Recognizing she needed immediate attention, I relocated her to our Consultation Room (for more privacy), then sought out a Nurse to consult with her. I found Shirley Lemons, who, without hesitation, agreed to meet with her. I escorted her to the Consultation Room and introduced her to the Mom. Shirley greeted her with a smile, grabbed a chair, took a seat close to Mom, took her hand, and, with a kind and compassionate spirit, began a conversation with her about her concerns and how she was feeling. I witnessed the Mom begin to relax and express to Shirley how she was feeling as she apologized to us for her display of emotion. Shirley was the perfect person to intervene in this situation, and it was wonderful catching her caring in this manner. Shirley shows compassion and service with heart that truly shines through. The mother was extremely thankful for her kindness and patience with her. Shirley demonstrated the utmost respect and, most of all, humanity in being able to identify that the mother needed support in this moment. Great work, Shirley!