Elsbeth Johnson, BSN, RN

Elsbeth went above and beyond in her care, demonstrating both compassion and skill in caring for a patient with severe autism. As a result of her exceptional care, we were able to prevent the patient from being restrained in the Emergency Department. She went above and beyond to attempt to console him and make things easier during his stay in the department. She persisted in trying to solve problems amid a chaotic, frightening, and violent scenario, trying to avoid restraints at all costs. At one point Elsbeth sat on the floor and spoke with him quietly, using every tool that she had to make the patient feel safe and supported. She provided him with goodies and played an alphabet game in an attempt to have the patient identify himself by name. She lavished the patient with extra care, patience, and love. She exhibited genuine empathy, compassion, and understanding. We were able to avoid restraints because of her actions.