I was admitted to Grandview Medical Center for a total knee replacement. During post-surgery I was placed on the fifth floor; however, due to significant medical complications, I was placed on the west fourth floor in the step down Intensive Care Unit. During this stressful time, my wife and I met Karen, who was the nurse on duty for several shifts during the remainder of my hospitalization.
Karen's exceptional clinical and professional skills included keeping me updated and explaining upcoming medical interventions. Being visually impaired, Karen advocated on my behalf by informing staff of my capabilities and limitations. This included placing a note on the whiteboard in my room for staff to identify themselves and to explain their reason for seeing me. There was a definite positive change in my hospital stay as a result of this thoughtful gesture. Karen is a wonderful and caring person who took the time to go the extra mile to make my hospital stay pleasant under stressful circumstances. My wife and I are grateful for Karen's professional, compassionate and caring qualities. She is a great asset to the medical staff at Grandview Medical Center.