Mary Ellen Flanagan
July 2019
Mary Ellen
Flanagan
,
RN, BSN, ONC
Rapid Admit Unit
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
St. Louis
,
MO
United States

 

 

 

Mary Ellen had a complex patient with regards to social/home issues. The patient was in need of a nebulizer and didn't have the means to pay for it. The patient was facing the threat of having her electricity turned off. She was visibly distraught due to circumstances. In addition, she was anxious due to asthma exacerbation and funding was only contributing to her anxiety.
Mary Ellen was able to handle this professionally and was able to reassure and calm the patient. Mary Ellen contacted the gas/electricity company and explained the situation. She worked closely with the physician and case management to ensure the appropriate documents were submitted to the gas/electricity company. The end result was that the patient was able to keep the power on (as it was medically necessary to use the nebulizer).
Mary Ellen went above and beyond for this patient as well as the patient's family (3 young children and spouse). She took it upon herself to be an advocate for this patient. She truly displays exceptional care.