As the SSC, Erika was called upon by one of the nurses to help put an NG in a patient. Unfortunately, this patient had needed an NG tube in the past and was reluctant to have one placed. After unsuccessful attempts, IR was called upon to place the NG. Erika suggested using a nasal bridle to secure it, but IR stated they were not trained to do that. She made several calls and did a lot of the behind the scene work so the bedside nurse could stay with the patient.
The patient went to IR and the tube inserted, but not long after returning to the unit, it slid out which made the patient was very frightened and anxious. Erika in her calm manner helped ease his concerns, reassuring the patient she would be there for him. She sat with him and displayed immense compassion, as he had been reluctant to begin with. Once he agreed to go back to IR, Erika went with him and stayed through the entire procedure, even wheeling him back to his room. She advocated for him, supported him, and assisted the rest of the staff, all the while remaining calm and collected with a smile on her face. When it was all finished, the patient said, "Thank you for staying with me when I needed you."
Erika continues to be a positive presence for the staff and patients. She walks the walk every shift she works and is a model of integrity, compassion, leadership, and teamwork.