There are two amazing patient interactions that need to be heard and raved about. The 1st: Lt Hayes was assigned a patient with altered mental status and Parkinson's. Her patient was not rested and suffered from discomfort. Lt Hayes has perfected a skillset of alternative therapies I have yet to see used on our floor. When Lt Hayes identified the source of the patient's pain/discomfort she jumped into action to help provide the patient relief. All throughout her shift, Lt Hayes performed many sessions of guided imagery and Reiki which is a form of alternative therapy commonly referred to as energy healing. Every time Lt Hayes performed these therapies her patient fell asleep which provided her the much-needed rest/relaxation she needed. Lt Hayes performed at a minimum of 6-7 sessions with this patient and when her spouse arrived he just needed to know how/where he could find further treatment for her. Lt Hayes went above and beyond for her patient. She located a treatment center locally so the spouse would know where to go and provided him lessons on what he could do at home. It was such an amazing sight to see and I wish more people were able to watch the magic that occurred!
The second situation was similar except I reached out for Lt Hayes's assistance in which she gladly jumped at the opportunity to help. This patient comes in frequently to the MSU, she suffers from severe anxiety/depression/PTSD. When she becomes anxious she uncontrollably vomits even while on antiemetic medication. I had used every tool I had and needed help. When Lt Hayes stepped in, I was able to watch such an amazing encounter that motivated me to be a better nurse and learn more alternative therapies. The experience was jaw-dropping! Just as my patient started to vomit, Lt Hayes sprang into action and started treatment on her. The patient immediately stopped vomiting and you could see the tension start to fade away. You could feel the sense of ease/relief in the room. She sat with my patient for at least 30 minutes and taught her how to come down from the edge during her severe anxiety/panic attacks. She was able to give my patient the tools she needed to be able to calm herself and she eventually discharged because we had her vomiting under control.
Lt Hayes is a true DAISY Nurse for always going above and beyond for her patients and her fellow nurses. It is an honor to work with you Lt Hayes, you are simply AMAZING!