Recently, the unexpected occurred where the staff on 12B were put to the test during a true fire activation. We had to put our fears aside and our lives on the line to protect our entire unit. 12B worked as a team with one of our most respected day charge nurses leading the way. She focused on the lives of our 36 patients and the 12 front line employees' safety while utilizing all possible resources to check all safety boxes from the oxygen shut-off valve to an entire unit evacuation. As the minutes turned into hours, our 12B charge nurse was practicing all aspects of our CIRCLES values while focusing on efficiency and safety. All 36 patients were relocated in a matter of approximately 3 hours and the chaos was quickly stabilized.

Our Charge's ability to practice stewardship was exceptional. She exhibited professional communication skills with all departments from BAM to Dallas Fire Rescue that set the stage for respect, integrity, and collaboration. She took the time to show compassion as she validated everyone’s fears and assured us we were all in safe hands. Patients were lined up in the middle of the hallway alongside their loved ones like something straight out of a movie. Although it felt like we were drowning if we turned in either direction, our strong day charge nurse leader offered help in whatever way she could.

The providers, RAT team, nurses, and PCAs worked in perfect sync to transport patients without fail which was a reflection of our charge nurse's abilities to exhibit leadership in a way that was not only respected by others but also infectious.

Our day charge was our logistical hero, she stayed behind after her shift ended and assisted with assignments and patient care after the most unsettling event. She exhibited excellence this day and will be unforgettable. With less than 3 years of experience, I am humbled and grateful to experience this strong leadership skill during this horrendous incident. I am eternally grateful for her level of leadership that allowed us to all go home safe this Holiday weekend.

To add, when this charge nurse isn't playing the leader of Disaster Management, she is advocating for her patients and building strong relationships to ensure best practices by everyone every day. She treats her patients like family and has ownership for Parkland and 12B.