Exceptional Patient Care Leads to a Legacy

Connie’s mother, Nelva, struggled with respiratory issues, osteoarthritis and then abroken rib. Despite being hospitalized and referred to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation of her rib, Nelva continued to fight for her breath. Connie knew it was time to take her mother to Meritus Medical Center’s emergency department.

“Mom had so much trouble breathing that I knew something was wrong and I knew Meritus would find out exactly what she needed,” says Connie.

Treating “Granny” like family

A doctor discovered that Nelva had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD and she was quickly admitted to the hospital. Nurses on the fifth floor tenderly cared for Nelva and affectionately called her Granny.

“They were so close to mom and talked so sweetly to her,” says Connie. “They felt like family to me.”

Throughout her hospital stay, Nelva handed out angel pins to nurses and nursing assistants to acknowledge the exceptional care she received.

But the personalized care didn’t end there. Upon discharge, nurses recognized Nelva’s fragile medical condition and arranged for an ambulance ride home. They also planned for a hospice nurse to greet Connie and Nelva upon their return home to review care and medication instructions.

A new tradition

Sadly, Nelva passed away soon after, but her final wish was to recognize those who demonstrate compassion and excellence in patient care. In 2018, Meritus Medical Center introduced the Nelva Ridgley Mount Crystal Bell award and every year a special nurse or hospital staff member receives the award at the Nurses’ Week Celebration held in May.