Christina was primary nurse for a patient, RP, who was in SCU for almost four months. The patient had an accident and was a quadriplegic who was ventilator dependent. It was a very stressful situation for the patient and her family coming to grips with what the future holds
for RP.

After months of being here Christina asked our SCU team if RP could have a barium swallow test to check her swallow. Christina was told no - there would be no chance for RP to swallow appropriately with her injury. Christina continued to advocate for RP and finally an attending physician said RP could have the test. RP passed the barium swallow test with flying colors, and she could finally eat and drink after four months of having nothing. RP was ecstatic and her family cried watching her eat chocolate pudding. It was fantastic!

I think this exemplifies excellent nursing care...taking initiative and advocating for your patient. What a wonderful gift for RP and her family.