A patient on the unit was experiencing a severe headache and arm numbness late in the day, and a stat CT head was placed to evaluate for shunt malfunction or other acute intracranial processes. The CT technicians were unable to get the patient to follow instructions appropriately and the initial attempt at a CT scan was aborted. When the patient arrived back on the floor, there was a discussion regarding medicating the patient so that the CT scan could be performed. Dana Charvella recognized that the patient instead likely needed a familiar, comforting, presence along with friendly instruction to get through the process. Dana volunteered to take the patient down to the CT scanner herself and was able to help the patient get through the scan without a problem shortly thereafter.
It's a pleasure to work with Dana, and as she demonstrated today her patients are better off for her efforts. Thank you Dana!