We received a transfer from the medicine floor to the GLA unit. This patient was actively having a mental health crisis and needed further care. I was the physician on duty during the time the patient was admitted to the unit. When a patient is admitted with a mental health crisis, this situation can impact the patient's actions, behaviors, and overall wellbeing. When I received handoff from the inpatient medicine team, honestly, I was expecting a challenging transition for this patient from inpatient to mental health. Fortunately, Sandra did an outstanding job with this patient and I would not expect anything less. When Sandra came on shift at 1930, she was able to build a wonderful rapport and took her time to listen and address the patient's concerns for about an hour and a half. Often, at the beginning of a nurse's shift, time is of the essence as they must get hand-off report and check on all their assigned patients. The patient was very receptive to Sandra and this was the beginning of taking care of the patient's mental health needs.
During my shift, the nursing staff had absolutely no issues with mental health challenges from this patient. It is easy for Residents to be quick to point out errors, but I think we should also celebrate nurses. Sandra was given a challenging task and went above and beyond for her patient, which consequently helps us during a call as well. I know she will continue to help others that are in need as she was the catalyst that began her patient on the road to recovery.