As a nurse, I have always had the philosophy of "treat your patients as if they were your own family member." As a daughter, sister, and mother myself, I have always had high expectations for those who care for my family. I expect only the best.

My mother had back surgery and had a planned hospital stay on the Ortho/Neuro floor. I was of course very nervous, as this is "my mom" going through this, not a patient who I can tell their family, it will be ok, comfort them and take care of their loved one. No nurse likes being in the reverse role. Mom's surgery went beautifully and the OR/PACU team was wonderful. She arrived on 4th floor late in the evening and soon after, there was a shift change. I had already made the decision that I, "the nurse", would stay the night with mom to make sure she was cared for.

Jesse Bishop was mom's RN that night. Although I did not know Jesse before, she made a great first impression with me, the over protective "nurse" daughter. Jesse came into the room with a smile and positive attitude. She let us know how mom's pain would be managed, assessed mom, straightened up the room and talked to us; really talked to us. She wasn't rushed, she didn't give short quick answers to our questions and showed us that she truly cared. Mom never had to ask for anything twice. Jesse had mom's pain under control all night and made her so comfortable. I went home later that night, not nervous or worried. I knew my mom was in excellent hands. The second night of mom's stay I didn't even feel the need to have to stay because I knew Jesse would care for my mother as if she were her own, and she did.