Shannon Chowning
December 2024
Shannon
Chowning
,
RN, BSN, CPAN
PACU
Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center
Charlotte
,
NC
United States
After what felt like an eternity, the patient was stabilized and rushed back to the OR for life-saving surgery. The collective sigh of relief was palpable, but everyone knew one thing for certain: Shannon’s actions had saved a life.
It started like any other day in the PACU—a hum of activity, monitors beeping steadily, and patients recovering under the watchful eyes of the care team. But for Shannon Chowning, that ordinary day was about to become a defining moment, showcasing her persistence and unparalleled clinical expertise.
The patient, fresh from surgery, was stable at first glance. The patient was in the PACU for over an hour and was getting ready to be transferred to her inpatient bed. But Shannon's sharp instincts caught something others might have missed—a subtle change in the patient’s vitals. The heart rate was creeping higher, and blood pressure was dipping ever so slightly. While others debated whether it was simply post-op fluctuations, Shannon trusted her gut. She knew these were the quiet whispers of a deeper issue.
She immediately sprang into action, methodically assessing the patient and piecing together the clues. A quick glance revealed what she feared—signs of internal bleeding. While others hesitated, uncertain of the next step, Shannon’s persistence took center stage. She called for assistance, alerting the surgeon and anesthesia team, refusing to accept delay or doubt as options.
The situation escalated rapidly. The patient’s condition worsened, and the bleeding became apparent. But Shannon never faltered. She worked swiftly to stabilize the patient, managing IV fluids, adjusting medications, and ensuring blood products were on hand. All the while, she communicated with precision and urgency, directing the team and ensuring every step was taken to save the patient’s life.
Her clinical knowledge proved invaluable as she anticipated the interventions needed to stem the bleeding. She guided the team through critical steps, providing calm amidst the chaos. Her persistence—her refusal to back down until the patient was stable—was the cornerstone of success.
After what felt like an eternity, the patient was stabilized and rushed back to the OR for life-saving surgery. The collective sigh of relief was palpable, but everyone knew one thing for certain: Shannon’s actions had saved a life.
Later, as the team debriefed, the surgeon remarked on her extraordinary efforts. “Shannon’s instincts and persistence were the difference today,” he said, echoing what everyone already knew.
For Shannon, it wasn’t about being a hero. It was about doing what she always does: giving everything she has to ensure her patients receive the best possible care. But for the patient and their family, her expertise and determination meant everything.
Shannon’s story is a reminder of the incredible impact one person can make. It’s a testament to her clinical knowledge, her relentless persistence, and her unwavering commitment to her patients. And for those who work alongside her, it’s a moment of pride to witness the greatness she brings to every challenge she faces.
Shannon Chowning—thank you for being the hero we all hope for in moments that matter most.
Following the incident, I received a call from the anesthesiologist who complimented Shannon’s persistence and diligence in getting help for this patient. The team worked together to determine the best options and care path for this patient.
***
Just wanted to thank Shannon Chowning and whoever was with her in the PACU yesterday. She was about to send the patient to the floor when she noticed something didn't look right. The patient ended up being a takeback with a major bleed. By practicing with a questioning attitude, Shannon and the team probably saved the patient's life. It would have been much worse if she had made it to the floor.
Two days following the incident, Shannon and I visited this patient in the ICU. The patient was getting ready to be transferred to the inpatient unit and home the next day. The patient was very appreciative of the care that Shannon provided. A true success story!
The patient, fresh from surgery, was stable at first glance. The patient was in the PACU for over an hour and was getting ready to be transferred to her inpatient bed. But Shannon's sharp instincts caught something others might have missed—a subtle change in the patient’s vitals. The heart rate was creeping higher, and blood pressure was dipping ever so slightly. While others debated whether it was simply post-op fluctuations, Shannon trusted her gut. She knew these were the quiet whispers of a deeper issue.
She immediately sprang into action, methodically assessing the patient and piecing together the clues. A quick glance revealed what she feared—signs of internal bleeding. While others hesitated, uncertain of the next step, Shannon’s persistence took center stage. She called for assistance, alerting the surgeon and anesthesia team, refusing to accept delay or doubt as options.
The situation escalated rapidly. The patient’s condition worsened, and the bleeding became apparent. But Shannon never faltered. She worked swiftly to stabilize the patient, managing IV fluids, adjusting medications, and ensuring blood products were on hand. All the while, she communicated with precision and urgency, directing the team and ensuring every step was taken to save the patient’s life.
Her clinical knowledge proved invaluable as she anticipated the interventions needed to stem the bleeding. She guided the team through critical steps, providing calm amidst the chaos. Her persistence—her refusal to back down until the patient was stable—was the cornerstone of success.
After what felt like an eternity, the patient was stabilized and rushed back to the OR for life-saving surgery. The collective sigh of relief was palpable, but everyone knew one thing for certain: Shannon’s actions had saved a life.
Later, as the team debriefed, the surgeon remarked on her extraordinary efforts. “Shannon’s instincts and persistence were the difference today,” he said, echoing what everyone already knew.
For Shannon, it wasn’t about being a hero. It was about doing what she always does: giving everything she has to ensure her patients receive the best possible care. But for the patient and their family, her expertise and determination meant everything.
Shannon’s story is a reminder of the incredible impact one person can make. It’s a testament to her clinical knowledge, her relentless persistence, and her unwavering commitment to her patients. And for those who work alongside her, it’s a moment of pride to witness the greatness she brings to every challenge she faces.
Shannon Chowning—thank you for being the hero we all hope for in moments that matter most.
Following the incident, I received a call from the anesthesiologist who complimented Shannon’s persistence and diligence in getting help for this patient. The team worked together to determine the best options and care path for this patient.
***
Just wanted to thank Shannon Chowning and whoever was with her in the PACU yesterday. She was about to send the patient to the floor when she noticed something didn't look right. The patient ended up being a takeback with a major bleed. By practicing with a questioning attitude, Shannon and the team probably saved the patient's life. It would have been much worse if she had made it to the floor.
Two days following the incident, Shannon and I visited this patient in the ICU. The patient was getting ready to be transferred to the inpatient unit and home the next day. The patient was very appreciative of the care that Shannon provided. A true success story!