Scott Turner
December 2015
Scott
Turner
,
RN, ADN
Critical Care Unit
Midland Memorial Hospital
Midland
,
TX
United States

 

 

 

Scott was nominated by a patient's son for his compassionate care of his mother. After suffering a heart attack at her home, the patient - a wife, mother, and grandmother - was rushed to Midland Memorial in an ambulance, where her heart stopped several more times. The husband and two sons who were with her were in shock as they were asked to sign a DNR during one of the codes. Thankfully, they didn't have to make that decision as she didn't code again. That evening was when the family first met Scott Turner.
Scott talked and sang to the patient just as if she were awake and made adjustments to make her more comfortable. He explained to the family what the purpose of the machines were that she was hooked up to and what was being done for their wife and mother. Then Scott began to ask questions about the patient. He turned her into a person instead of a patient. The nominator said that with Scott in the room, they were able to take comfort for the first time that day.
Over the next few days, when Scott wasn't looking after the patient, he was helping the family prepare for what would be the hardest decision they would ever have to make. "I don't know what we would have done without Scott there during this time, but I can tell you that we are so grateful," the son said. "I don't know if you guys have figured it out yet, but Scott is a godsend to MMH, the people of Midland, and to us." The son continued to say that there is no question that Scott loves his job and makes a difference in the lives of those he touches.
Scott is recognized by his peers as someone who is always willing to step-up and get the work done, no matter how difficult. He works as a preceptor for new team members and staff use him as a resource for critical care expertise. Scott works hard to keep the team motivated and is said to be "a buddy, a pal, and a friend" to any and all that work with him.
Because of Scott's compassionate and caring efforts, his patients experience a level of care that exemplifies the impact nurses have in creating an environment where patients and families feel at home.