June 2019
Nichole
Britt
,
RN, BSN
L&D
Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center
Midlothian
,
VA
United States
Recently, Nichole reported to work not realizing that her presence would forever impact the life of a complete stranger. Nichole received report and began to care for a 28-year-old woman, having her 2nd baby. The patient desired to have a vaginal delivery after C-section (VBAC). Nichole was very attentive to the patient and implementing her nursing interventions to optimize a vaginal birth. It became time for the patient to push. The patient began to tell Nichole she felt "funny" and was feeling many sensations on one side of her body. Nichole continued to talk to the patient and fully assess the situation. While the patient was pushing and with the MD and RN at the bedside, the patient began to actively seize. Nichole continued excellent care of the patient and a healthy baby boy was delivered vaginally. Post-delivery, Nichole advocated for the patient to have a neuro consult for further evaluation. She "arced up" her concerns to the charge nurse and Nurse Director because she did not feel they were being heard. The MD then agreed to place a neuro consult but wasn't sure it was necessary because she attributed the seizure activity to blood pressures. This patient was ultimately diagnosed with a brain tumor. The patient explained to Nichole she had verbalized concerns a month ago of unusual symptoms to her provider that did not receive follow up. Nichole exemplifies nursing excellence. We are so fortunate to have her at St. Francis and this patient's life was changed by her advocacy. Although we don't know what the future holds for this patient, we know she will begin to get medical attention and care she needs to optimize her life with her newborn child. Thank you, Nichole, for the person and nurse that you are. You inspire us all to be better nurses every time we work with you.