November 2023
Brian G
Howell
,
RN
Neuro Trauma ICU
MyMichigan Health
Mount Pleasant
,
MI
United States
I left at the end of the day knowing he was caring for her just as he would if it was his sister in the bed.
My sister was admitted to the NT-ICU late on a Friday evening following a complication or event after her pacemaker insertion; the entire team was amazing and caring to my sister and family, but one nurse stood out among them and that was Brian Howell. Saturday continued to be a rough day as she was not returning to normal, and the future seemed uncertain. On Sunday we came to see her to find she had begun to awaken and show positive signs of recovery. I observed Brian caring for my sister in the most compassionate and respectful manner; and not just her, but our entire family. Every single time he interacted with her or any of us, he was kind, encouraging, supportive, and always left the room asking, "Is there anything else I can do for you?" He always came in with a warm smile and was positive with every interaction he had. He ensured that my sister heard and understood what he was asking and also worked hard to ensure he understood what she was trying to say, which was incredibly difficult the first few days with her limited speech. As a nurse myself, I know how important it is to give patients and families confidence and comfort - Brian did that. I left at the end of the day knowing he was caring for her just as he would if it was his sister in the bed. Brian has truly mastered the 'art' of caring and serves as a role model for all of us.