I had a Parotidectomy on a tumor near my left ear at the Tacoma Group Health Medical Center. This was my first ever surgery and the first time I experienced anesthesia. To say the least, I was a nervous wreck for days before and finally when it was over,I was relieved that everythnig had gone so well, the pain was minimal and I was able to go home soon after the surgery.

The following day, I returned to have the drain removed. What was supposed to be a routine office visit took a turn when the drain was removed and there was abnormal bleeding. My doctor requested that my mother leave the room to get Nikki (his nurse). My doctor explained that there was unexplained bleeding and informed me that I would need another 'immediate" surgery to determine the cause of the bleeding and stop it.

I suddenly remembered the fears I had felt for the past few days and the hours immediately before my first surgery which had been just the day before. As the anesthesiologist came in and began asking questions about when I had last ate and between himself and my doctor, they tried to figure out the logistics of conducting another surgery, I began to beg my doctor to look at other alternatives. I was afraid to
have surgery again. My doctor explained the importance of having another surgery immediately and the planning quickly began.

Nikki informed my mother that she would need to go down to the first floor to check me in. Seeing that I was so scared given the unknown nature of what was going on with me,the last thing I wanted was for my mom to leave the room as I was being moved into a wheelchair and rolled across the hall to the surgery center.

Nikki comforted me and explained that she would remain with me while my mother went downstairs. Nikki took over for my doctor by keeping pressure on the bleeding coming from my neck and wheeled me over to the surgery center,the whole time telling me things were going to be ok and remaining calm and understanding.

Once in the preoperative room, Nikki helped me remove my clothing and change into a gown the whole time making sure to keep pressure on my neck. Once another nurse arrived to assist with keeping the pressure on my neck, Nikki remained right next to me holding my shaking hand. Nikki said, "I know I'm not your mom but I will stay here with you until she gets back."

Words cannot express how much it meant that Nikki stayed with me the entire time until I was rolled into the operating room. Nikki's soft spoken voice and understanding of my fears was just what I needed.

The following week when I returned to have my stiches removed, Nikki was the nurse that brought me back into the office. Nikki remembered me and told me how great I looked and stated that she was so happy to see me doing so well. It was nice to know that she remembered me and complimented my progress.

Nikki made an uncomfortable and scary situation much better. My mother and I were put at ease knowing that Nikki, who truly cares about her patients, was there to help me.

Nikki's goes above and beyond the job title by setting an example of what nurses can and should do for their patients. I am grateful for her kindness prior to my second surgery and nominate Nikki for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.