I would like to recognize PO Joseph Talamantez from the Behavioral Health Department- Groton. This behavioral health psychiatric technician has surpassed all the necessary clinical skills necessary for a great psych tech. He is a very compassionate provider who has proven to be a great asset in our department. From day one he has proven himself to be an outstanding role model, not only corpsmen but for all civilian and contracting staff throughout our clinic and base.
HM3 "T" (as we all refer to him) has often stepped up to the plate by volunteering to stay late and arrive early for acute patient care. He has personally escorted/transported patients to a variety of in-patient care facilities throughout the State of Connecticut. He closely follows our patients' medical care with personal phone calls and one-on-one meetings. He is the type of person that will take the lead without being asked ensuring that the best medical care is provided.
Oftentimes, service members are reluctant to come to Behavioral Health for services. HM3 "T" has been complimented by so many of our patients who indicate how comfortable and relaxed they are after speaking with him. A number of ICE comments have confirmed this. He has a way of clearly explaining all of the services our department provides and how we can help with individual needs on a personal basis. One thing I have noticed is that when patients leave HN's office they seem to have a new sense of hope.
He has always brought a natural composure and compassion to his work. His sincerity, innate intelligence, and wisdom make him someone who patients can easily trust.
He goes above and beyond each day with his compassion, willingness to put aside his own needs, and ability to connect with providers to ensure patient care is always number one.
One time base security called "T" on a Saturday (when our clinic was closed) and reported that they had a service member in their custody who was in crisis. "T" dropped what he was doing and met with the service member. He took time and talked with her, evaluated the situation, and made sure she received a higher degree of care at a local hospital.
Another time there was a sailor who was suicidal in the barracks. HM3 "T" was notified late in the evening, arrived at the service member's barracks, and remained there all night. He was willing to do everything and anything to help. He continued to follow-up with this service member on his own time making sure he was safe and letting him know that we "DO" care.
Just this past week a patient presented acutely on call and reported that he had strongly been considering suicide. By the time the patient arrived to me for review and disposition, the patient was once again smiling and stated that his talk made him realize a number of ways that he had engaged in problematic thinking.
HM3 "T" initiated a specialty care program meeting with distressed sub school students who are having problems adjusting to military life. His time and input have expedited mental health evaluations preventing delays in services to all our patient care. He has also been beneficial with revamping our "Transition Group" which relays all necessary information (such as services and benefits entitlements) for service members separating from the Navy for various reasons.
Not only is HM3 Talamantez an asset to our patients, but he is also an asset to our department. He is able to closely work with all staff to include officers, junior staff, civilians, and contractors. This does not happen everywhere. We all know that we are his CT family and, no matter what it takes, he will be there.
There is no way to estimate how many lives HM3 Talamantez may have saved, but we can state that to date we have not lost any of our patients to suicide.
I believe that great nurses are not only exceptional in patient care but also exceptional in all associated work and personal tasks. In my eyes, and I'm sure in those of our entire staff, HM3 "T" is a true DAISY Nurse.