The many tiny ways one nurse provided comfort

For many hospitalized patients, moving around the room can be a real challenge. They may not have the ability or the energy for previously "simple" tasks. It's often up to nurses to prepare a patient for using the restroom or even just stretching their arms and legs. 

As a patient who has had many hospital visits, Gail Abilovitz was impressed with a nurse whose small kindnesses, such as placing a toilet seat cover, really went the extra mile. Gail wrote the following compliment for Meuy Wong, Clinical Nurse II in the Surgical Specialties Unit D12: 

Meuy is absolutely one of the best nurses I have had the privilege of helping me. Her personality shines through, and her caring, empathetic demeanor is palpable. She would make sure the restroom was clean and had the seat cover in place. She would clean up my bed when I was in the restroom. Most importantly, she was very much on top of all my medications. In particular, she helped me stay on top of my pain, ensuring my pain meds were available.

She is an incredible asset to UC Davis. Your Med Center is lucky to have her as an employee. Her patients are the true winners when they randomly get assigned to Meuy. I wanted to make sure that she knew how much her help and attentiveness affected me. 

Meuy's response to her patient's compliment was humble.

"From my perspective, I was simply providing the best care I knew how," said Meuy. "This feedback serves as a reminder to always aim for excellence, do what’s right and take pride in our work. It is a truly rewarding experience if we make a difference or inspire others along the way."

The Small Dose, Big Impact series recognizes employees who take the extra step, however tiny, to make meaningful connections with patients. Better health takes more than health care. Believe in better.

Visit our Believe in Better Moments landing page to read additional stories about team members providing fantastic care to our patients.