Amanda Dawson, RN

Amanda recently reviewed a consult for a veteran who had recently worn a heart monitor. The veteran was noted to have an 11-second pause on the monitor, accompanied by a loss of consciousness. The veteran was not due to be seen by his provider until July. Amanda recognized the danger of this veteran waiting until July to be seen and immediately called the facility cardiologist on his cell phone. She discussed the case with the cardiologist, who contacted a local community cardiologist. The community cardiologist advised the VA cardiologist to have the veteran report to the community hospital emergency room and said he planned to place a device the next morning. The VA cardiologist informed Amanda, and she called the veteran to explain the situation and advised him to report to the local emergency room. The veteran kept saying "This is all so quick, I am eating dinner right now". Amanda reassured the veteran and told him to finish his meal, then report to the community emergency room. The veteran then informed Amanda that he was on a blood thinner. Amanda called the VA cardiologist back, who then notified the community provider. Amanda contacted the veteran the next morning, and he stated that he was inpatient and awaiting device placement. Amanda also advised the veteran and his wife to contact the LOCC 72-hour hotline to report the hospitalization to ensure that the veteran would not receive a bill. Amanda's quick response potentially saved this veteran's life and demonstrates her commitment to the VA mission.