Podcast
Questions and Answers
What motivated May Paxton to pursue a career in nursing despite challenges?
What motivated May Paxton to pursue a career in nursing despite challenges?
Who accepted May as a student nurse after she expressed her interest?
Who accepted May as a student nurse after she expressed her interest?
What nickname was given to May, Marian, and Bessie during their time at the hospital?
What nickname was given to May, Marian, and Bessie during their time at the hospital?
What decision did Dr. Richardson make when she discovered May held the crying babies?
What decision did Dr. Richardson make when she discovered May held the crying babies?
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What was a challenge Dr. Richardson presented to May when she first considered becoming a nurse?
What was a challenge Dr. Richardson presented to May when she first considered becoming a nurse?
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What action did Marian first take after Dr. Richardson introduced her to May?
What action did Marian first take after Dr. Richardson introduced her to May?
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What ultimately prevented Marian from completing the nursing program?
What ultimately prevented Marian from completing the nursing program?
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What characteristic best describes May's attitude towards following orders?
What characteristic best describes May's attitude towards following orders?
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Study Notes
May Paxton's Journey to Nursing
- May Paxton was a deaf nurse known for her compassionate care at Mercy Hospital in Kansas City.
- She graduated from the Missouri School for the Deaf around 1909.
- Dr. Katherine B. Richardson, a founder of Mercy Hospital, initially had reservations about accepting a deaf nurse but was impressed by May's determination and work ethic.
Impact at Mercy Hospital
- May's work led to the acceptance of two other deaf individuals as student nurses: Marian Finch and Lillie "Bessie" Speaker.
- Together, they became known as "the silent angels of Mercy Hospital" for their care and dedication.
Relationships and Communication
- May and Marian did not know each other prior to Marian's employment at the hospital; they communicated through written notes upon meeting.
- The moment of realization about May’s deafness led to laughter, showcasing their camaraderie.
Caring for Patients
- May was known for being conscientious, occasionally disobeying Dr. Richardson’s orders regarding patient care.
- She took the initiative to comfort crying infants, improving the nursery's environment despite being advised against it.
Challenges and Career Changes
- None of the three women completed the nursing program:
- Marian left due to family problems in South Dakota.
- Bessie had to stop because of illness.
- May chose marriage over her nursing career, marrying Alexander Benoit.
Legacy and Recognition
- Dr. Richardson expressed pride in May's abilities and work ethic, noting that there were no complaints about her performance from anyone during her tenure.
- May's story reflects both the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the early 20th century and their contributions to nursing.
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Description
Explore the inspiring story of May Paxton, a deaf nurse who uplifted a scared child after a tonsil surgery. Learn about her journey from graduating at the Missouri School for the Deaf to becoming a dedicated nurse. This quiz sheds light on her impact in the medical field and the challenges she overcame.
