Yvonne Crawford is an exceptional nurse with the biggest of hearts. We have watched her time and again work so diligently to get every one of her patients the education, care, and resources they need. Yvonne went above and beyond in helping a non-English speaking patient learn about her diagnosis. This patient was refusing care including the use of the translator. Yvonne convinced the patient to use the translator and encouraged its use with all staff. She saw that breaking down the language barrier for this patient would be key to her success.
Yvonne sought out every possible resource she could in educating this patient. She followed up on every step of this patient's care making sure that any department working with the patient knew she needed the use of the translator. This patient needed to be taught how to take medication, monitor symptoms, and learn dietary restrictions among many other educational needs. She worked tirelessly to find any written material in which the patient would understand.
Yvonne found a staff member who could translate the medications and instruct the patient on proper dosage. Also, she found a pharmacy close to the patient's home that could translate the medication labels so the patient could understand.
When the patient was discharged, she worked with her most of the day to ensure the patient was well prepared and safe with her new medications. Yvonne made all the follow-up appointments along with rides to and from the appointments. She communicated with the offices to make sure they knew the use of the translator was needed.
When the patient went home, Yvonne followed up with her using a telephone translator to ensure she was okay. The patient was so moved by the work Yvonne did she hugged her and told her she was like a "mother".