Adrienne Halbach
February 2024
Adrienne
Halbach
,
RN
HAMC MedSurg
UVA Community Health Prince William Medical Center
Haymarket
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

Adrienne demonstrated so much compassion and understanding and truly made my safety a top priority.
I came to the ER in the middle of the night experiencing an allergic reaction. When registered, my information and medical chart was pulled from a past visit, a few years prior, when I was in an abusive marriage. I didn't notice at the time, but my former married name was printed on my wristband and on my charts in the ER. When admitted to the third floor of the hospital, my nurse, Adrienne B, was reviewing my patient information with me when I realized that my former last name and information was being used. I panicked, fearing that my abusive ex-husband's contact information was still connected to my chart. Adrienne B took my concerns very seriously. She responded with compassion, as well as swift action. Adrienne immediately updated my emergency contact information, put my ex-husband's name and information on a Do Not Call List, and contacted the records department to have my name corrected ASAP. She then shared information with the front desk and the charge nurse that my ex-husband was not a permitted visitor and was not to be allowed any contact or communication. She reassured me repeatedly that my safety was top priority. Understanding the impact of some of my previous traumatic experiences, including sexual abuse and assaults, Nurse Adrienne allowed me to remain in my clothes from home (as long as IV access was possible) so that I was more covered and felt less exposed than I would feel in a hospital gown. She checked with me to ensure that I was comfortable receiving care from male staff and introduced me to the staff prior to him coming to check vitals. Adrienne demonstrated so much compassion and understanding and truly made my safety a top priority. I cannot thank her enough for listening to me, taking my concerns seriously, and advocating for me to ensure that I received the best care possible in a safe, secure environment.