Nurse turned ER patient thankful for Holy Cross Hospital
Letter to Bill Patten, CEO of Holy Cross Hospital:
After experiencing the service in your emergency room, I had to write to tell you of the exceptional employees you have. I should tell you that I have many health issues, so this wasn’t my first rodeo. In addition, I am a registered nurse. I became an RN at 44 because of my hospital experiences, so I have that perspective too.
I was traveling to New Mexico on vacation, so this visit was extra stressful since we were so far from home. Upon arriving to the ER, I saw that it was busy. I already knew in my head what diagnostics I would need. I had hoped I wouldn’t have to ask for them.
To my surprise, while I was in the lobby, I was asked to give my blood for labs before I was seen by the doctor, which is brilliant, and all hospitals should do this. I am sorry I do not remember the phlebotomist’s name, but she was good. Next, I was called back to see Kelly, a triage nurse. I found her kind and thorough. To my relief she explained what the doctors had already ordered. I was again impressed.
I was given bed No.12 in the ER. Within a few minutes, Katherine, your lovely volunteer, came in to make sure I was comfortable and offered warm blankets to me and coffee, tea or water to my husband. She was so kind and caring, which is what I needed. I was scared and cold, and she made me feel safe.
Quickly after Katherine’s visit, I was surprised again, when Dr. Bush came to see me. My experience in ERs is that you wait forever to see a doctor, so this was awesome. She had reviewed my case and gave me her game plan. She also went over a few things she thought my symptoms could be stemming from. Loved her.
Next in the room was John, EMT-Intermediate. He was incredible. While I thought everyone was amazing, he was my favorite visitor. I was impressed with his knowledge and intelligence. He was funny and made me feel at ease when doing my IV and my 12-lead EKG.
I met Kristy, who was my nurse, and she was very thoughtful and listened to what I was saying. Listening is very important, and sometimes we humans only listen, so we can respond. We do not actively listen. She was definitely listening and for that I was grateful
I was taken to CT. I am sorry I do not remember their names, but they were wonderful. Thoughtful and understanding.
The last two employees that took care of me were Mike, the night nurse, and Anthony, the ICU nurse (he was helping the ER out). Both men were helpful, considerate and knowledgeable. I appreciate a male nurse as they do things differently from female nurses but are just as caring and effective. It was great to have multiple male caregivers and a female doctor. I loved that this hospital had this type of diversity.
I know this is a long-winded letter, but I did not want to leave anyone out. Please pass on my gratitude for the exceptional care I received at your lovely facility.