A 31-year-old patient in CICU with extensive cardiac history and anxiety became extremely agitated while the cardiology team was rounding in his room. The Veteran abruptly left to “get some air.” His mother was present at the time too and verbalized the frustration with the inadequate pain control her son was having. RN Tammy Jimmerson (TJ) immediately followed him, calling on her Vocera to her ANM to call the police as he was heading outside to the visitor parking garage. RN TJ always kept him in her sight, and maintained communication with her unit managers while the police were en route. Unit management followed shortly thereafter.

Police arrived immediately to the top floor of the visitor parking garage where they spent a considerable amount of time talking to him, trying to calm him down. RN TJ remained nearby. He eventually agreed to return to his room provided RN TJ accompanied him in the police vehicle and which then she transported him in the wheelchair to CICU.

While it is unknown what could have happened if RN TJ had not followed the veteran out, it was evident that RN TJ showed all of the elements of I CARE: INTEGRITY-she did not hesitate to follow him immediately and report her concerns to appropriate services-her managers & police services. COMMITMENT-to her patient and his mother who watched her son leave and felt helpless and scared for his safety. ADVOCACY-for his feelings of frustration, discomfort, and anxiety. RESPECT-he was willing to return to his room provided RN TJ accompanied him in the police car to the door and then transported him via wheelchair to his room EXCELLENCE-as she coordinated his care upon his return maintaining ongoing communication with the cardiology and psychiatry services. Once she administered the ordered analgesic gel, he reported immediate pain relief.

Tammy Jimmerson is a true DAISY Nurse for her commitment to a true Veteran in need.