ICU, Risk and Security Team at St. Mary's Medical Center
May 2023
ICU, Risk and Security Team
at St. Mary's Medical Center
Intermountain Health - St. Mary's Medical Center
Grand Junction
,
CO
United States
Audra Longworth, BSN, RN, CCRN
Megan Dowling, BSN, RN, CCRN
Joyce Page, BSN, RN, CPHRM, CNML, CPPS
Susie Bourgeois, Interim Director of Public Safety & Security, Peaks Region

 

 

 

The significant other (SO) of a patient in the ICU wrote a note to the primary RN, Megan Dowling, indicating she was afraid for her life. The patient had become aggressive in the room, having suicidal ideations, and wanting to leave the hospital. The SO was crying and said she had been hurt by the patient before and was scared if he left the hospital, he would do it again. She was currently 13 weeks pregnant and had a young child already. Megan escalated the situation and she had taken the SO to her department manager, Audra Longworth, for further assistance. Audra reached out to Joyce Page. Audra, Joyce, and the SO went to Joyce's office to discuss local resources available to ensure she and her children are safe. Joyce brought in Susie who also added additional options and resources to ensure safety. The team went into action to help this young woman and her children get to a safe place with resources. The team showed compassion and empathy without judgment. The SO was able to get to a safe house.  A great demonstration of a team of people helping a mother and her children seek safety and shelter and be free from the abusive situation.