After my TORS, I was admitted to your surgical ICU because I needed care for obstructed breathing (ventilator). This was my third surgical procedure at Penn and, by far, the most serious. My wife and I had been impressed by the care I received before, having to be on a ventilator for several days after the TORS. We were told what to expect but we still remained uncomfortable and a bit scared.
Kevin, who had been with me for my first three days in the ICU, was very knowledgeable, caring, calming, reassuring, and compassionate. The care I received was helpful, yet gentle. His consideration of my condition made me feel a bit more relaxed and comfortable. He was very kind to me, my wife, and my son. He spoke to me, not at me, and always wanted to know what he could do to make me more comfortable. He took control when it came time for me to get up and walk after surgery. I didn't think I was up to it. He was in charge, but he displayed such a positive and reassuring attitude that I just followed his lead and accomplished the task with all my tubes, wires, and machines in tow! And, I felt better afterwards. He considered my feelings, medical needs, personal hygiene care, and even made sure I could see the television to pass the time.
Each of the three days he spent caring for me made me feel more comfortable and able to relax a bit more. When his weekend coverage was done, he was apologetic about the fact that he wouldn't be on duty to hear my voice when the respirator would be removed the next day. My wife and I are grateful that my care was entrusted to him. All I could do when he went off duty was shake his hand and give him a thumb up.
I am extremely thankful to Kevin for the care he had given me during my stay in the ICU. The attention he gave to my situation was extraordinary.