Wendy Dunson
June 2014
Wendy
Dunson
,
RN
Medical Unit
Mercy Medical Center Dubuque and Dyersville
Dubuque
,
IA
United States

 

 

 

My Mother was a patient at Mercy in ICU and then was moved to the Medical Unit on Comfort Measures. Wendy was the nurse on duty. She was pleasant, kind and gentle with Mom and me. She diligently worked with me to try to clear Mom's throat and give her a sense of comfort as she was filled with fluid, mucous, etc. She listened to my concerns and gave professional opinions. She worked side by side with me to offer my Mom reassurance through her choking spells. It was not only sad and depressing for me, but was very scary for my Mom. Wendy and the aide got Mom washed up, refreshed and repositioned. Mom looked so much brighter. The choking started again and Mom refused to open her mouth. Within an hour, she had passed away. I saw Mom stare upward through the ordeal and had no doubt she was going to the angels. Wendy was our angel; right here on earth during that life and death changing moment. I'm so grateful she was on duty. She assured family members to take the time we needed to grieve and say good-bye to Mom. Wendy's genuine compassion was apparent and much needed.