Lynn came into my room the day after I had emergency surgery. She greeted me and introduced herself. I asked her when I could get out of bed. She said, "now if you like". Well, that was great to hear as I was under the impression it would be a few days. She counseled me to let her help me up and to always ring for help when getting out of bed. She stressed the importance of my safety and said we are always happy to assist you so don't ever hesitate to ring that bell. She helped me out of bed and into the bathroom. Lynn directed me to ring the bell when I was done, but she knocked at the door also to make sure I was alright. Then I asked when I could walk. She said now and she would take me for a walk. That went well and when I returned to my room I sat in my chair and she reminded me to ring that bell when I wanted to get up. Also, before I went for my walk she said, "let me fix that drain". Turns out I wasn't even aware of it, but it was hanging between my legs, not too attractive. She taped it up on my leg. I tell this story because when the nurse assistant came in to empty it and she saw it was taped to my leg, she said oh there it is, that's old school. Well, I like old school. It was much better and easier for me to have that drain in place versus hanging down possibly doing damage.
Another thing about Lynn was she just built up my self-confidence. She told me how well I did on my walk and complimented me every time she saw me walking in the hallways or came to help me get up from the chair to walk. Her attitude is so positive, and it rubs off on the patient.
Lynn stressed safety, but she encouraged me to get up and move. She was kind to my family members when they came up, even though I believe they got in the way at times. She just took it all in stride.
When I had surgery, the doctor told me I would be in the hospital for 5-7 days. I was released in 4! I feel that this in large is part to the nursing staff and especially that first day that Lynn just was there encouraging me. It does make a difference. I know nurses work long shifts but I have to say I didn't notice a difference in them from the time they started to the time they left. It is amazing.
I know nurses deal with patients daily. Lynn is the type of nurse to realize this is new to the patient and I needed guidance. She was there to give it. She wasn't matter of fact about it either. She was kind and thoughtful, yet professional. As a patient, I truly appreciated all she did for me. By the way, she was the same with my roommate, so that is a sign she is just a great nurse.