Marissa Ruffing
June 2022
Marissa
Ruffing
,
Uunknown
5B Medical Surgical Unit
University of Michigan Health at Michigan Medicine
Ann Arbor
,
MI
United States

 

 

 

She took the time to provide reassurance and helped me to remain positive through all of the setbacks.
When I was admitted to 5B, never did I think I would develop so many setbacks following surgery for a complicated diverticulitis, which included extensive abdominal surgery. On the first day I did quite well, but that night the complications began. I spiked a fever, had severe, uncontrolled back and abdominal pain, and an ileus. I had to go for more CT Scans, and for an IR needle aspiration of my abdomen. Marissa was my nurse on many of the 10 days I was in the hospital. Not only was she exceptionally knowledgeable regarding my type of abdominal surgery, but also with the complications I encountered. I experienced 2 different infections and the re-opening of my incision. She was also an advocate in helping me get the proper pain control medication. In addition, Marissa understood how difficult it was for me to be going through all of this without the presence of my husband or close family. She often stayed at my bedside and truly listened to my concerns, my fears, and just the fact that I was so lonely. She never made me feel as if she needed to be elsewhere. She took the time to provide reassurance and helped me to remain positive through all of the setbacks. Marissa had truly gone above and beyond in her care for me! For that, I will be forever grateful! For all of this, Marissa is truly a nursing angel and I believe she deserves this nomination for the Daisy Award. Thank you again Marissa. Please stay the caring and compassionate nurse that you are, and you will go far in your nursing career!