Jodi was called to place a peripheral IV on a 17 year old sickle cell patient. The patient was an incredibly difficult stick, and had been stuck approximately 8 times the previous night to gain IV access. The patient was irate that she had to be stuck again and was borderline verbally abusive to Jodi. Jodi maintained a professional attitude, calmly spoke to the patient and helped her understand what had to happen and why. Jodi attempted one arm and was unable to gain access. The patient was even more upset and crying after that. She began to use inappropriate language and continued to cry. Jodi tried once more and was able to gain access in the other arm, despite a very rude, upset patient.



Jodi displayed exceptional service to the patient and her family. She professionally allowed the patient to vent her feelings, even though the feelings were abrasive and rude. I was very impressed in her attitude, remaining calm and performing exceptionally under pressure. I was so impressed with her attitude, and I was even happier that she nailed that IV when no one else could. Had she been unable to get the IV, the patient would have needed a central line to be placed and would not have been able to transfer out to the floor. This allowed her to get the blood transfusion that she needed and she transferred out of the unit later. The members of the IV team don't always get the recognition that they deserve. They come into the room to stick a patient, and are often seen as the bad guys by patients and families. I want Jodi and the other members of IV therapy that I think they do a wonderful job in sometimes terrible situations. Thank you Jodi, you did an amazing job!