I wanted to take the time to acknowledge a critical care RN. A post-surgical cardiac patient in the CVICU began to experience stroke-like symptoms that were promptly recognized by the CVICU RN who in turn called a Brain Attack. Alison Corcoran, a senior RN for the AICU was the lead Brain Attack RN who responded to this emergent call. Despite the fact that the patient had her cardiac surgical procedure only 4 days prior, Alison's expertise in recognizing that this neurological emergency was indeed a Stroke coupled with her understanding that although this patient was not a t-PA candidate and she could potentially be a candidate for Mechanical Thrombectomy Stroke care by our Neurointerventionalist, most likely saved this patient's life as well as prevented significant disability. If it had not been for Alison's persistence and tenacity for insisting that the Neurointerventionalist be involved, this patient may have missed a time-sensitive window for this advanced stroke procedure. We are very proud of Alison and her clinical expertise, as well as the professionalism that she displayed with all who were involved in this case.
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I wanted to thank one of your nurses for not only using her expertise but also going above and beyond what anyone else would have done. My patient began speaking "funny". After having another senior nurse assess her, the patient was fine. My gut told me to call Dr. C in the morning to let him know. 6 am rolls around and that's the night shift's witching hour. It happened again, this time with a facial droop. I called a brain attack. Alison took over from there. I went the first time to CT with her. Alison was persistent. She had the proper treatment and tests done with this patient and Dr. A removed a clot that morning. Alison didn't leave until late that morning all for the sake of the patient. I know in my heart, had Alison not been the nurse that she is with her knowledge and perseverance, the patient would have died. You have a fine set of nurse's and Alison sure is one of the best. Hats off to her and your unit. Thank you so much for such a great team effort!