Labor and Delivery Team Award

I am pleased to recognize the outstanding LDRP team for their extraordinary collaboration and compassionate care during a recent, highly complex case.

A female patient was brought to the Emergency Department via EMS. The call originated from a concerned neighbor who heard the patient screaming. It took first responders nearly an hour to reach her because she had barricaded herself in her apartment. During transport, the patient remained noncooperative and unable to provide any identifying information to the paramedics. Upon arrival to the ED, she was identified as being in active labor and was transferred to the LDRP unit for care.

Once in L&D, the team immediately jumped into action. The patient was combative, physically striking at staff, and unable to follow directions due to her psychiatric condition. Despite these significant behavioral challenges, the team remained calm, focused, and took a coordinated team approach. Their ability to maintain a safe environment for the patient, baby, and care team while delivering life-saving care is evidence of their clinical skill, emotional resilience, and unwavering dedication.

Dr. Jessica Vaughn went above and beyond to provide pain management in a way that respected the patient's mental state and physical needs. Michelle Flores, RN, and Jackie Harris, RN, were instrumental in respectfully engaging the patient, making every effort to monitor both mother and baby while keeping the patient's boundaries and anxieties as a priority. Dr. Mercurio remained calm and centered throughout the delivery, providing steady leadership and clinical support.

In addition to the clinical team, Dali Aboulwafa RN, Vanessa Salcedo RN, Jenny Vasquez RN, Yvonne Ortiz RN, and Nery Martinez OB Tech each played critical roles in supporting the patient and one another during this emotionally intense situation. Their presence, calm demeanor, and flexibility created a safe and supportive environment that facilitated the successful delivery of the baby.

This was an extremely challenging case involving a patient with severe psychiatric illness, active labor, and minimal communication. The team's collaboration, empathy, professionalism, and commitment to patient-centered care ensured a safe delivery and ultimately saved the baby's life. Thanks to the compassion and teamwork demonstrated that day, this newborn now has a chance to thrive in a nurturing environment.

The LDRP team's care reflects the very heart of nursing and patient-centered care we deliver. Thank you for exemplifying the highest standards of nursing and team-based care.