Krisann Shoemaker
February 2019
Krisann
Shoemaker
,
BSN, RN
Emergency Department
The University of Texas Medical Branch- Angleton Danbury Campus
Angleton
,
TX
United States

 

 

 

A patient came to the hospital with complaints of abdominal pain and pressure to the vaginal and rectal area. Krisann was called to assess the situation. The patient had a history of significant fertility issues and was advised by her OB/GYN that pregnancy wasn't an option. Therefore, the patient insisted that she was not pregnant. Krisann immediately moved the patient into a room and performed a vaginal exam as she had previous Labor and Delivery experience. She determined that delivery was imminent. She and the doctor delivered a stillborn baby. What's remarkable about this is not her nursing expertise, but how she handled the situation. She reverently, with the utmost compassion, gave the baby to his momma to hold. She had wrapped the baby carefully to reduce the amount of skin showing (the baby was starting to decompose). She advocated that the mother be allowed to hold her child. She demonstrated critical thinking when she first assessed the patient and got the patient to the room and a doctor at the bedside for delivery. She collaborated with nurses in another department for assistance. She gathered the family and allowed them time with each other in this difficult situation. She is truly an exemplary RN and person. Her experience is truly valued by her peers. She stands up and speaks up to validate patients or co-workers concerns. This impacted me as I witnessed her provide a level of nursing excellence and compassion for a woman who never thought she would experience pregnancy and motherhood to losing her child all in one day. Krisann is a true DAISY Nurse.