I would like to recognize an extraordinary nurse, Patrice Royds! She makes an enormous difference in the lives of so many people by the super-human work she does every day. Nurse Royds is an Adult ED nurse, which means you need to be prepared for anything that walks in the door. This past weekend a code assist was overhead to the ED waiting area room restroom. Nurse Royds was the first to arrive, and encountered a young woman too weak and in shock to talk. It wasn’t until Nurse Royds heard a faint cry coming from the toilet that she noticed the baby.

With clarity, discernment, and critical thinking Royds quickly went into action. She secured the mom in a wheelchair and then grabbed the baby. She wrapped the baby in her shirt, actively warming, drying, and stimulating the baby as she quickly ran to the Pediatric ED. Royds continued to work the rest of her shift, but I could tell that the situation was weighing heavy on her.

Later that day, we went to visit the mom. The mom of the baby boy was so happy to see Royds, she was crying tears of joy thanking Royds for saving her baby and her life. Royds was so worried this young woman didn’t have a support system and wanted to be there for her after this traumatic event. The young woman did have her mom at her bedside who embraced Royds, repeatedly thanking her. Our department is amazed by her composure during a chaotic situation. This is just one example of her critical skills, expertise, and compassionate care that she gives every day to our community.