"Do you know Nancy?" That is how the conversation started with my patient. According to the patient, Nancy was the nurse that changed the course of her hospital stay. This patient had been in a terrible MVA. She sustained multiple fractures of her spine and ribs. She also had a pneumothorax with a chest tube. The patient stated that Nancy taught her the best way to keep her lungs clear with the chest tube and after removal. Nancy taught her how to move with the TSLC brace and C-Collar. They also did bladder training after the removal of the F/C. Nancy also worked closely with the patient to control her pain, first with a PCA then oral analgesics. This patient frequently expressed her appreciation for Nancy's care, bedside manner, knowledge and patience.
This patient was fortunate to have Nancy as her nurse for 4 days. Nancy was able to give her all of her years of experience to improve the outcome and optimal recovery.