Any single person who sets their mind to it, can get through nursing school and pass the NCLEY test, but it takes a truly special RN to be an angel in scrubs who makes a difference so profound in a patient's life, that the patient is forever changed for the better. In these situations, the RN gives a piece of their heart and you realize that there are nurses who care in a way that there are no words to truly describe it. They are the nurses who do anything and whatever it takes to be there for a patient.
I was blessed enough to have a nurse like this. Karla truly goes above and beyond. She is not just a nurse to me, but an angel in scrubs. Someone who I will never forget and a nurse Mercy never wants to lose.
When she entered my hospital room to stay with me, she began to do everything in her power to help me. She tried suggesting things and my response was no to all. She had a face of compassion and concern when she asked how she could help. I said nothing, but minutes later I said that a hug would help. Without a second of hesitation, Karla pulled me into a hug and said that she wouldn't let me go and I would need to be the one to end the hug, because I knew how long I needed it, not her, and that she would be there. Karla did not let go at all, but when she felt me start to fall asleep, she suggested that she sit and let me put my head in her lap so I could rest and sleep. Keeping me in that hug I needed so much. I found Karla to be one the most selfless, compassionate, and caring RNs I have ever met. She truly got how difficult it was for me to be confined to a hospital bed and made sure that the time she was with me was pleasant.
Karla was truly inspiring and an extraordinary example of love, compassion, support, and care coming from her as not just an RN, but a person. Amazing cannot fully describe her, she gave me so much with her sweetness and utmost patience that is not required from RNs, but she has it. She didn't have to be there, but she was and well over 100%.
Her compassion, experience at helping me stay calm, ability to stay true to her word of the hug, and willingness to talk to me with her loving and calm personality made a tremendous difference in my heart and attitude. Our paths may never cross again, but the handprint she left in my heart will never leave. I will never be the same and I only pray and hope that means I can touch someone's life the same way Karla did me. She has forever blessed my life for the better.