Caroline Gearin
November 2021
Caroline
Gearin
,
RN
Ellison 19 Thoracics & Vascular
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston
,
MA
United States

 

 

 

Because of Caroline's clear instruction and obvious good professional relationship with the doctor that returned to the bedside, the patient was transferred to the ICU.
During these tough challenging times, I found myself in need of medical care ending up at MGH on Ellison 19, a very busy cardiac/thoracic unit. Nurses know, "once a nurse, always a nurse," so for me, a retired RN, I felt quite at ease with the beeps, alarms, and hospital chatter. Arriving in my room at 4:00 p.m. with my significant other, we were just settling in when my name was called. Turning my attention to respond, I quickly realized the nurse was talking to my roommate who had the same first name as me, "X, she said, remember it's important you stay in bed. I want you to stay safe: I don't want you to fall. X, do you know where you are? X don't try to get out of bed. I'm here to help you. You have a catheter in. X, please stay in bed." This went on all evening. Trying to be in my own space and respect privacy was made difficult as the patient was confused and in an altered state. After passing by her bed and briefly glancing her way to say hello, I realized she was very confused and looked unstable. The nurse was constantly at her bedside, the docs were constantly questioning these nurses as to the patient's status. At some point the situation became more critical, again prompting increased nurse and doctor presence. After a brief bedside team discussion regarding plan of care for the patient, it was decided the patient would remain on the unit. The nurse was in total disagreement as were some of the other doctors present, but respectful interactions were observed. Again, the nurse in a very and respectful and quiet manner addressed the patient's multiple issues and needs clearly demonstrating the need for transfer to a higher level of care. I was impressed by the nurse’s calm and professional demeanor in relating the seriousness of the patient's changes, leading to this bedside meeting. After all the doctors left the bedside, one doctor returned. The nurse once again advocated for the higher level of care, providing a clear rationale for her stand based on a sound judgment. On the other side of the room, I silently cheered the patient's nurse for her doggedness and strong patient advocacy. Because of her clear instruction and obvious good professional relationship with the doctor that returned to the bedside, the patient was transferred to the ICU. I’m sure the patient’s family, and especially the patient, are unaware of what a champion this nurse was. I was honored to witness her struggle with the team and her ultimate success. Caroline is a true DAISY Nurse!