Colleen was working in the discharge unit when her patient had acute onset of new stroke symptoms. Colleen had discontinued the patient's IV and was about to hand her the discharge papers from her inpatient stay when she noticed that the patient was confused, had slurred speech, and facial droop. The patient was seen by Colleen in her usual state just 10 minutes prior. Upon seeing this, Colleen immediately activated a TREX. An inpatient stroke alert was then activated by the Neuro Critical Care Coordinator. Colleen followed the patient to the CT scanner, where she was met by the stroke team. Colleen was able to provide all pertinent information to the Stroke Provider to determine her candidacy for IV and/or Mechanical Thrombolysis.

The patient was found to have an acute occlusion of her basilar artery, but due to Colleen’s rapid recognition, astute observations, and activation of Rapid Response Team, her patient’s basilar artery occlusion was removed via mechanical thrombectomy within 65 minutes of their last known well time. This quick action resulted in an amazing recovery from a potentially devastating stroke. By that same afternoon, Colleen’s patient was able to sit up in a chair and chat with her sisters.
The stroke team wants to recognize Colleen for her amazing work. Her dedication to patient care greatly impacted this patient’s life. Thank you so much, Colleen. You are truly an incredible nurse.