January 2018
Nam
Sangha
,
RN
Observation
St. Vincent Healthcare
Billings
,
MT
United States
I recently visited with a patient about her experience at St. Vincent Healthcare. This 37-year-old mother of 6 had recently been in our facility for a number of health concerns following a routine surgery. I was especially moved by the story she told of the nurse who saved her life. She knew something wasn't right and stated that she was having trouble breathing. Because she wasn't showing signs of significant respiratory distress, her concerns weren't considered life-threatening. It was because of the quick-thinking and response of Nam, however, that this woman was able to return home to her children. She claims that not only were his actions swift, but he reduced her anxiety as he maintained control over the situation and reassured her that he was going to help her. "Help" is an understatement. Nam not only initiated the Rescue Assessment Team to react immediately, but his continuous monitoring and fortitude kept the patient calm. Nam is a nurse who understands the importance of acting in regard to the whole patient; he treats mind, body, and soul - this is how the patient feels he saved her life. I have had the good fortune to work with Nam and have always observed him to be a shining example of the role of nursing as he continues to raise the bar for professional standards. I am so proud to call him a colleague.