I went to the Anderson Campus to be induced and deliver my first baby. The recommendation by my doctor was not welcomed, but I knew I had to adhere to their advice since my baby was 10 days past due. The entire staff was amazing, but my nurse Samantha Kiefer went above and beyond to make me feel secure, safe, and comfortable with everything that was happening around my delivery.

When the medical staff suggested an amniotomy, I became anxious and hesitantly agreed. This was not the birth plan I had visualized myself experiencing. When I was left alone to think about the recommended action, my nurse, Samantha, told me that as long as the baby or I were not in any immediate danger, it was ultimately my decision. Because she had already made me feel comfortable, I expressed my real feelings and told her I wanted to wait. She advocated for me, and I was able to postpone the amniotomy. In the end, I did receive the amniotomy, but I felt right with the decision after being allowed to wait for my body to try.

And that’s how the entire experience went, RN Sam continued to explain the medical importance of every suggested action, but did so in a compassionate manner, all the while recognizing that it was ultimately my choice. She advocated for me the entire time.

Nurse Sam made my entire birthing experience comfortable and pleasant. I came in with a birth plan that did not include an epidural, but when the real contractions kicked in, I changed my mind. RN Sam was incredibly encouraging; she told me that I could definitely have the unmedicated birth I had originally planned. That it would be hard work, but she knew I could do it. She was so genuine that I believed her. I even changed the way I spoke about the epidural, “I know I can, but I don’t want to.”

Even though I changed my birth plan and opted for the epidural, I never once felt judged about the change. RN Sam was never condescending about my new choice. She was instantly on board and made me feel as if this was part of my original plan all along. Because of my culture, there were times when I felt guilty about being medicated. Nurse Sam was extremely supportive and compassionate; her kindness made all that guilt go away. She brought me back to the present and reminded me this was about me and my baby, nobody else.

I came to the hospital with my mom, and husband on my support team, but gained an additional person to that team, RN Sam.

I am extremely happy to have this space to share my experience that showcases the amazing nurse Samantha Kiefer