June 2013
Elaine
Clark
,
RN, BSN
PACU
Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center
Charlotte
,
NC
United States
Recently my father had a nephrectomy. In the OR things were stable, everything went according to plan. Within minutes of his arrival to PACU, his condition changed and became critical. Elaine was quick to react and aggressive in calling physicians to update them on his status with each treatment. For 7 intense post op hours in PACU, as the surgeon, cardiologist and intensivist worked together to save his life, Elaine was right by his side with compassion and impeccable nursing care. Even though the situation was serious, Elaine kept my mother and me updated and allowed us to be by his side in PACU. There is no double in my mind that the critical thinking, quick action, high standard of nursing care by Elaine is a large part of the reason my father was able to be discharged home 5 days after his operation. And, she did it all with grace and compassion. Elaine Clark is an extraordinary nurse to whom we will forever be grateful.