raquel jara, RN

This nurse single-handedly prevented a patient from having a limb amputation. She coordinated inpatient care with the surgery team, wound care, primary care, and discharge planner. The patient needed specific wound care and close monitoring to promote wound healing. The patient had no health insurance that limited his outpatient care. After several weeks of inpatient care, the wound was showing signs of healthy tissue growth. Raquel identified an opportunity to bridge the gap between the inpatient wound care team and the ambulatory physical therapy wound care department. However, the first few dressing changes could not be supported. Raquel took it upon herself to schedule the wound care with the patient and clinic. She worked closely with physical therapy to utilize time and space. She dressed and changed the wound dressing during the first two dressing changes while keeping physical therapy informed. This led to a smooth transition of care. Both the patient and the family had complete trust in RUHS. Raquel also verified that the patient was able to schedule appointments with his primary caregiver to manage his other disease process. If Raquel had not gone above and beyond there could have been a negative outcome for this patient. Raquel has always shown diligence and dedication to her duties as a wound care nurse. However, she truly took it to a new level with this patient and made a difference in his life.