I wanted to send along a little story about two exceptional nurses, Deanna and Amy.

Triage received a call from one of our chronic catheter patients that his catheter was plugged. He has complicated anatomy, which requires his catheter exchanges to be performed with a guidewire. "Wacky Wednesday" has made a name for itself in this department, and that particular day was no exception. Deanna took the call and instructed the patient to come at 1500 that day; we would work him in.

At 1330, Deanna received a follow-up call that this patient was back on the line with a new concern. I overheard several pauses during the call, as Deanna provided reassurance and asked the patient if he would be willing to hold. She proceeded to inform Amy and me that this patient was sitting in his car in the hospital parking ramp. He had experienced a bladder spasm that caused him to lose his bowels, with loose stool all over himself and his vehicle.

As we sat there pondering "now what," we discussed every possible option. This patient is unable to bathe himself and relies on the care of others. He lives 45 minutes away, unable to return home, clean up, and then come back before the clinic day was over. He had no extra clothing with him, and since he required a guidewire exchange with an actively plugged catheter, that also meant the ER was not an option. Covered in stool, he was unable to make the journey up to the clinic for assistance. And it was with those considerations in mind, Deanna informed the patient, "We are on our way."

Amy and Deanna quickly packed two bags full of supplies, towels, blankets, surgical scrubs, gowns, gloves, wipes, you name it. In the most selfless way, they prepared, ready to take on any situation encountered. With dignity maintained, the patient was brought up to the clinic, where his catheter exchange proved to be another element of surprise. Nursing was unable to maintain the wire, as the sediment was too thick to allow the wire to pass into the bladder.

With a lot of prayer, a little skill, and a whole team of support, a successful exchange ensued. Deanna and Amy then proceeded to give the patient a sponge bath, cleaning what remained. They provided him with a clean pair of clothing and supplies to help cover the seat in his vehicle. And it wasn't until every last need was met that they sent him on his way.

A handwritten letter was received. A note of profound thanks, that the "Mayo brothers would be so proud" as the work of Jesus was carried out that day. Certainly, a profound example of the work this team does each and every day, and in all the little and big ways, the urology crew is blessed with a team of nurses who intentionally choose grace, empathy, and mercy for those in need. Deanna and Amy are being recognized for their selfless compassion.