Friendly and Informative: Heart Patient Praises CMH

by David F. Crawford

	David F. Crawford

Nikki Hawkins, RN, was my personal nurse. From the outset she explained each step of what would happen. She not only saw to my needs and comfort, but also to my wife’s concerns. Among the numerous tasks she performed, I was especially impressed with the respectful and dignified way she carried out the preparations required for this procedure.

Each person assisting with the procedure was attentive to my needs, especially Dr. Johnny Dy. Following the heart catheterization, Dr. Dy spent sufficient time with my wife and me, showing us pictures that were taken during the procedure. He effectively explained the results and graciously answered our questions. His explanations included the need for me to have a stent placed in one of the vessels of my heart to improve blood and oxygen flow.

He said this needed to be performed the next day and would require my being transferred to another facility. I feel blessed that Dr. Dy, who had done my heart catheterization at CMH, was the same physician to perform the stent placement at the other hospital.

Visits from supportive friends, my minister, and parish nurse helped me to feel less anxious. In addition to answering the questions that my wife or I asked, they provided various means of spiritual and physical comfort.

As a longtime resident of Caldwell County, this experience has helped me to appreciate and further validate the outstanding care provided by our local hospital.