I recently had outpatient hip replacement surgery at Salinas Valley Health. I have always received good, competent care at the hospital and expected the same on this visit. However, on this date, I received exceptional care.

Tyler was my nurse. He explained that he would be my surgical nurse, explained the process to me, and finished my pre-op prep. He was professional, yet still funny and compassionate. As he pushed me to the surgical suite, we prayed together, and he squashed any last-minute anxiety I was feeling. His friendliness and competent nature were very comforting.

As we rolled into the surgical suite, he exclaimed, “oh we’re so lucky - we have the very best crew for you here today!” Yes, I realize that was just to further reassure me, but I appreciated it. I don’t remember anything after that due to the anesthesia, but I do remember the kindness extended to me. While I always know I will receive excellent care at Salinas Valley Health, I feel that Tyler was exceptional.

I feel that many times, people report their bad experiences, and good people get overlooked, so I wanted to let someone know that I appreciate Tyler very much. He won’t remember me because I suspect they treat each and every patient the same as me, and that makes them even more exceptional in my mind. I’m having my other hip replaced in a few months, and hope to see him again.