I was admitted after spending a night and most of the next day in the ER, because there were no beds available. I am a retired nurse with multiple health issues, mostly due to laryngeal cancer in 2019, which includes a severe esophageal stricture that requires frequent dilations, anemia, and chronic kidney disease. I had an EGD with dilation at UMMC and developed aspiration pneumonia. I have had numerous EGDs with dilations, both locally and at UMMC. My throat has always been sore following these procedures, and as a result, I have had trouble swallowing for a couple of days following.

Sometimes, when this happens, food or drink comes out of my nose (other people can't handle it). I got very little nutrition for three days following my dilation and no water. I usually drink 70-100 ounces of water every day to help keep my kidneys functioning to avoid dialysis. Everything I drink, except water, has to be thickened. During my stay in the hospital, I couldn't even drink water without thickening it. I have seen many nurses show concern and understanding for patients, both as a charge nurse and as a patient.

McKenzie, RN, exhibited the best in patient-centered care I have ever seen. Dietary did a good job supplying me with thickened liquids to go with my meals, but I needed more. After I explained my specific problems to McKenzie, she appeared to understand and left my room. She returned a few minutes later with multiple containers of pre-thickened liquids and a container of powdered thickener that I could put in water. It feels really good to be seen and even better to be heard. McKenzie saw me, heard me, and responded accordingly. Her demeanor, actions, and overall nursing presence demonstrate what DAISY is all about. Please thank her for me!