Jason Bruce, BSN

I would like to commend Jason Bruce for his outstanding professionalism and swift response during a highly stressful situation involving an angry and potentially violent patient. His ability to remain calm, establish a sincere connection with a patient, and communicate with empathy was instrumental in de-escalating the incident.

3 North called Code Gray around 1500. The patient had been more angry and more agitated today due to an extended length of stay for wound care needs. He is a young 37-year-old paraplegic male patient due to a gunshot wound at 17 years old. He suddenly became upset and threw his tray across the room, wanting to leave AMA. Code Gray was called, and Jason Bruce was the first one to respond as he heard the code gray and happened to be near the unit.

Jason was able to talk to the patient in a very calm way while trying to make a personal connection. The patient was able to immediately open up to him and express that all he wanted was to be able to leave to go to the ATM to pull cash so his friend could come to pick up his rent money. Jason offered to walk across the hospital and get the money on his behalf while keeping his information private, as long as the patient felt comfortable with this safer alternative option. The patient quickly accepted his offer and felt appreciative that he would do that for him. The patient had expressed that he did not trust his friends or anyone else to pull the money for him, so he wanted to leave AMA in order to pull the money himself.

Jason quickly went across the street to the MOD 1 &2 ATM with the instructions from the patient, returned with the receipt, and he and I counted the cash amount in front of the patient for accountability. The patient was overwhelmed with gratitude and peace of mind that Jason went above and beyond to do this for him.

Through his quick thinking and composed demeanor, he not only helped to resolve the patient’s anger but also safeguarded the well-being of staff and others present. His actions exemplify exceptional teamwork, leadership under pressure, and a commitment to creating a safe and respectful environment.

I am sincerely grateful for his support and willingness to go above and beyond in such a challenging moment.

Jason, you are a rockstar! I am so grateful for your help and support.