A patient’s story: Caring for patients as people

Jose Melo and RN Tania Peters

Despite being unable to communicate with nursing staff during his five week stay at Mount Sinai Hospital because of his oral cancer, Jose Melo says the kindness, care and human touch of 11 North nurses, made him feel respected as a person and not just a patient.

“At times when I became confused and overwhelmed, the nurses held me with a careful touch to calm me down, that showed their respect for me as a person,” says Melo.

Melo notes he’s grateful for being taught about his new special diet, ways to manage his pain, and care of the surgical site, which created comfort and prepared him to return home safely.

“My wife and I are grateful for the support and professionalism of the nurses during my stay at the Hospital,” says Mr. Melo. “The nurses were caring, warm and knowledgeable.”