Erica went above and beyond assisting with a Cardiac Cath lab STEMI/ROSC (ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction/Return of Spontaneous Circulation) patient. I was the only nurse on-call when an extremely sick patient came to the Cath Lab from the Emergency Department. Erica assisted me throughout the procedure, providing skilled, knowledgeable, and appropriate patient care.
Despite not being formally trained in the Cath Lab, Erica was able to assist me in managing six IV drips including vasopressors, the management of central lines, the checking of medication compatibility, administering the medications to the patient before and during the patient's cardiac arrest, and acquiring equipment needed to provide patient care. She helped me during this procedure immensely, assisting me with a workload that was overwhelming; it would have been extremely difficult to provide adequate patient care without her assistance.She came to the crisis with an open mind, was accepting of the on-the-spot education, exercised excellent judgment under stress, and utilized her strengths to help manage a medically complex patient. She stayed throughout the procedure and the patient's cardiac arrest, then assisted me with the post-mortem care and follow-up, not leaving until I had thoroughly assured her that I no longer needed her assistance.
I have worked with Erica for some time and have been impressed by her clinical judgment, ceaselessly optimistic attitude in the face of extreme stress, and the compassionate care she provides her patients. She is an inspiration as a nurse and deserves to be recognized for her compassion, flexibility, and hard work. She is passionate about what she does, and it truly shows.