leah maatta, BSN, RN

Leah went out to triage a new arrival to the ED lobby who was unable to articulate secondary severe anxiety or psychosis and was resisting his supports' attempts to get him help. She recognized the extreme risk of imminent self-harm, she was able to manipulate the environment efficiently and safely, bring the admit safety pause together, and secure this high-risk patient a safe environment with minimal additional stimuli. She was able to do this by using verbal direction and body language that was straightforward, directive, and gentle. She displayed no censure or judgment of the patient's inability to respond in a meaningful manner, his obvious intent to leave the premises, and evidence of a recent attempt to hang himself.
Leah, despite the patient's attempts to deflect her directions, with her clear yet soft voice, repetitive directions, accepting body language accompanied by her gentle actions/assistance in removal of the patient's belongings, and clothing, provided for the patient's continuing safety while ensuring his ability to maintain the little composure he had by her approach as well as advocating for attendance of his emotional support.
This clearly demonstrated to me Leah's compassion as well as a commitment to dignity, safety, and integrity.