Chad Hendry, BSN, RN

A patient was brought to the Emergency Department by a friend after being found living in unsafe conditions with worsening memory loss. It was quickly determined that the patient could no longer live independently or make decisions. While there were supportive friends and neighbors, no Power of Attorney had been identified, creating an immediate barrier to developing a safe discharge plan.

Chad Hendry, RN Care Manager at Heber Valley Hospital, promptly recognized the urgency of the situation and worked closely with the physician and Speech Therapist to obtain clear documentation of the patient's cognitive status. He efficiently escalated the case and submitted a thorough, well-articulated referral to the Office of Public Guardian (OPG), allowing a caseworker to be assigned more quickly than is typically seen.

Chad remained persistent and engaged throughout the process, coordinating closely with OPG and Utah Senior Planning. He provided regular updates, requested forward progress, assisted with identifying community resources, and coordinated visits as the legal process moved forward.

Throughout the patient's 27-day hospitalization, Chad treated him with kindness, dignity, and respect, regularly checking in and providing reassurance during a confusing and vulnerable time. This compassionate approach was echoed by the entire Heber Valley Hospital team, who worked together to keep the patient safe, supported, and never alone while hospitalized.

As a result of Chad's determination and consistent attention, along with the teamwork and compassion of the Heber Valley staff and support from OPG, a Power of Attorney was established, allowing the patient to be discharged safely to an assisted living setting. Many similar cases last significantly longer, making this outcome a meaningful reflection of doing what is right for the patient.

Chad exemplified the Intermountain value, We Do the Right Thing by Learning and Acting with Purpose. He remained persistently engaged with community partners to drive forward progress, proactively identified and coordinated multiple resources, and ensured that a safe Power of Attorney and long-term care plan were established for the patient. His advocacy and follow-through were instrumental in securing a safe and appropriate outcome for this vulnerable individual.

Equally impactful was Chad's patient-centered approach. Despite the patient's inability to make independent decisions, Chad involved him at every step, clearly explaining the process and ensuring he felt comfortable and respected throughout. During the 27-day hospitalization, Chad's consistent reassurance and compassionate advocacy helped the patient feel safe, supported, and valued, ultimately enabling a dignified and safe discharge to assisted living.