Melanie Smolewski, RN

Today, during her shift, Melanie received a call from a gentleman who has been admitted to 6 West multiple times for the treatment of alcoholism and attempted suicide. He asked specifically for her and was clearly altered and in distress; Melanie felt concerned for his safety. While she continued to communicate with the patient she texted the outpatient psychiatry nurse who indicated the mobile crisis unit could be dispatched to see the patient, but if there was an imminent concern for his safety to call 911. Melanie had another nurse call 911 and remained on the phone with the gentleman offering him assurance that help was on the way until NPD arrived.

I think this is a phenomenal story of a patient who clearly connected with Melanie and felt that she could provide the support needed during a crisis. Melanie escalated the concern until she was absolutely sure he was safe while continuously communicating with him in a compassionate manner.