Recently I was overwhelmed with two extremely acute patients with unstable vitals and conditions. One was to receive blood to stabilize him prior to going to surgery and the other was lethargic with low blood pressure. Both required immediate attention but I was unable to meet both of their needs at the same time. As I worked to stabilize the patient with low blood pressure, calling MDs and getting orders, Aylen Gordilo without hesitation went to assess my other patient. She quickly took his vitals noted his temperature was now better and appropriate for transfusion. She evaluated his IV sited and noticed the IV was sluggish. She quickly removed that IV site and re-sited it on him with a 20G in the forearm. She called the blood bank and made sure the units were ready. And of course all of this was happening as the change of shift was commencing.

As if that was not enough, Aylen came back to help with me with my hypotensive patient. By this time the doctor had given orders to transfer the patient to ICU. She called the ICU and secured a bed. She expedited the MAR and reconciled the meds with the primary physician as we gathered the patient's belongings and started fluids and meds for transport.

Some nurses are known for their hard work and foresight, but on this day Aylen went beyond her duty. She interceded on my behalf, without being asked to, she assessed, implemented changes, made sure my anemic patient's needs were met and his surgery was not delayed. Without her I could not have completed my assignment, nor transitioned my patients to their appropriate levels of wellness.