April 2026 Honoree
Crystal Baker, RN
A patient was very insistent on leaving after a PICC had been placed. He refused to wait. He was supposed to go to SNF/ALF. He argued with nurses, doctors, and security. He repeatedly said they could remove the PICC.
Crystal came to the scene. She allowed the patient to fully express his frustrations, anger, and anxiety, just wanting to leave AMA. Through her compassionate presence, she validated his concerns, offered him choices, and gently explained the implications of each option.
Her calm, grounded demeanor and safe space allowed the patient to express his feelings until he began to cry and said, "Everything is just going downhill." Crystal remained steady and supportive; with her gentle touch, the patient felt secure and returned to his room.
Once in the room, the crisis shifted to connection. He began to share stories about his dogs. Crystal's compassion, presence, and skill turned a volatile moment into one of healing and trust.
This exemplifies patient-centered care, and empathy was extended to help the patient cooperate in his care again.
Crystal came to the scene. She allowed the patient to fully express his frustrations, anger, and anxiety, just wanting to leave AMA. Through her compassionate presence, she validated his concerns, offered him choices, and gently explained the implications of each option.
Her calm, grounded demeanor and safe space allowed the patient to express his feelings until he began to cry and said, "Everything is just going downhill." Crystal remained steady and supportive; with her gentle touch, the patient felt secure and returned to his room.
Once in the room, the crisis shifted to connection. He began to share stories about his dogs. Crystal's compassion, presence, and skill turned a volatile moment into one of healing and trust.
This exemplifies patient-centered care, and empathy was extended to help the patient cooperate in his care again.
Thank you, Crystal, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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