September 2017
Julie
Patrikas
,
RN
Emergency
Southern New Hampshire Medical Center
Nashua
,
NH
United States
Today, I witnessed this new ER nurse deliver amazing care. She gives amazing care every day, but today was exceptional. Julie had an elderly acute stroke patient, who had wishes to be a DNR/DNI. The patient's daughter was present and was her DPOA. The patient and patient's daughter were given the option for TPA. It was a tough family decision to make, and despite the family and the patient being given both the pros and cons of the medicine, they both remained indecisive. Julie helped this family better understand the diagnosis, the options, and the potential treatments, and that even by agreeing to the medicine they were still honoring the wishes of the patient. They agreed to the medicine, and within minutes we began to see neurological improvements. Julie then helped the family agree on an MGH transfer. In a situation where timeliness was so important, she was able to give all the appropriate information, answer all questions, and provide truly impressive emotional support while keeping in mind that time was truly of the essence. The patient was ultimately transferred to MGH with an improved neurological status, a happy and thankful daughter, and even a smile and a wave from the patient! Julie was truly amazing! It was a proud moment for our ED family to celebrate such a successful teamwork and positive outcome moment.