Even when there was a lot going on, Ben was always on time. He helped me set my pain goals and pushed for the doctors to come in and speak to me. He did everything he could to help get my pain levels down to a tolerable level after my procedure. Ben always explained my medications, why they are used and the side effects. He always checked to see if I was having any side effects after starting new medications and if the pain was reduced. He talked to the doctors to get physical therapy to see me because I wanted to work out and was not sure what I was allowed do. If he was unsure about something, he would find the answer or have the doctors explain it to me.
Ben never hesitated to do anything; no matter how small. When I needed ice, he would smile and say "my pleasure, I'll be right back". He found out what time the basketball game came on and stopped in after his shift was over to let me know, say goodbye and thank me for letting him take care of me. He even checked in on me on his day off! Ben always had positive things to say about his coworkers during shift change.
Ben never showed judgment toward me even after knowing I had abused drugs in the past. He talked to me about my decision to try to quit taking the opiates for pain and pushed for Motrin, which was the best and helped the most. He explained that it was my decision but considering my situation of being a recovering addict, it would be a good decision. He was able to talk my anxiety down and helped me find information about different options available to me. He always reassured me that things would be okay and God is on my side. Everyday Ben was my nurse was an awesome day! He is absolutely an extraordinary nurse. Thank you, Ben!
Note: This is Ben's second DAISY Award!