There are so many ways Pete excels at being a very special nurse. What sets him apart from other nurses can best be described as the way in which he "partners" with his patient for the best possible results and hospital experience. Pete is one of the few who consistently ensures that the dry erase board is accurate and reflects the plan for the day, making sure that he understands how and what he can do to meet the patient's priorities. For example, if a patient has indicated walking is important, Pete is proactive in making it happen and it doesn't get lost in the shuffle. He communicates that when one IV finishes and there is time in between the next one that it would be a great time for a walk. The result is that the patient feels his priorities are being addressed, and trust and confidence are enhanced between nurse and patient.
Pete is an excellent communicator and keeps his patient (and family) well informed in various situations. Because he knows exactly what the orders and plans for the day are, he goes about making sure his patient knows of any changes. For example, he recently did a blood draw and told D not to be concerned if his usual morning IV antibiotics were a bit later than usual because the doctor indicated they might be making a change in the amount/type he had been receiving and that could make it a little later.
Pete must have outstanding time management skills because he always has time to pop in and see if anything is needed, even on the busiest days. He keeps the patient at ease when he says things like, "I have a procedure with another patient but will be back in 20 minutes or so. Just call if you need something otherwise I will see you when I'm finished". On one occasion when Pete was standing by D for the 1st 15 minutes of a transfusion and his phone rang he assured the calling patient that someone would be right there, he immediately reached another nurse to attend to what was needed.
Along with all of his other attributes, Pete is always wearing a smile, always upbeat, positive and offering reassurance. He not only nurses medically but nurses the spirit and emotional well-being of his patients.
I could write an entire book on what he has done for us such as offering ice for swelling, making sure everything was comfortable from room temperature, to bedding, and much, much, more. After a very rough day from chemo side effects, I was very tired but hated to leave D's side but knew I needed to go home and was on my way to the elevator and was silently crying when Pete appeared at my side with his calming, professional but warm and reassuring words and encouragement that things were under control. He said tomorrow there would be much improvement and he would call me if I wanted him to during the night. He assured me D was in good hands and would get great care. Pete is simply the best.