I was a "short stay" patient, and Ike (Ikenna) was present on my first night and the following night. He helped orient me to the process of the rehab hospital. Ike took care of my health needs, including taking my VS and managing my meds, and my "comfort" needs. Ike always checked that I had fresh water, that my room temp was comfortable, and that I was sleeping comfortably. Ike was a special "cheerleader" when it came to my practice with the incentive spirometer! He never missed an opportunity to encourage me to take deeper and deeper breaths. Throughout my care, Ike showed an endearing quality of compassion towards me. I looked forward to seeing him every night, and Ike never failed to check in and say hello when he came onto the unit.
For several nights during my stay, Ike was mentoring a new nurse who had just started at this rehab hospital. Ike was patient and understanding during all the teaching/learning tasks. As a teacher educator, I look for these qualities in a "seasoned" teacher being matched as a mentor to a new employee. Ike was encouraging when problem-solving and encouraged the new nurse to practice their exceptional skills. Like educators, nurses are often overlooked and do not get the recognition they deserve. I am glad this recognition program is in place, so nurses like Ike can be recognized for extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and dedication to patient care.