Baby O, born at just 1 pound, has been in the neonatal ICU of MCP for over 100 days. His mother, reflective and grateful, shared her story one night in a family support group hosted by our NICU staff. She told a story of faith and gratitude toward several nurses in the NICU, and naming one nurse specifically whom she credits with "saving O's life" through her attention and great nursing skills.
Brittany Stovall is a new intern graduate on our unit, who has shown great promise and commitment to the field of neonatal nursing. Her thorough assessment, which caught a pneumothorax early, made a significant difference in the outcome for tiny baby O. A pneumothorax in a baby this small can have devastating consequences if not caught early. Something O's mother recognized and appreciated. She also recognized Brittany for showing compassion and support for the family, telling everyone in support group that "we have bonded with the nurses here to the point that we are a family." They particularly named Brittany as someone who took the time to educate the family, and "help them get through the toughest days."
Brittany has grown so quickly in her knowledge and skill by taking personal responsibility to participate in education and take on challenging patient assignments. She has made a significant difference on our unit and for this family, as evidenced by their expressions of respect and gratitude. We are so proud to call her one of our own!