Zach was the nurse caring for a patient who was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident. The patient was nonverbal and had difficulty expressing his pain during his stay in the PED. Based on initial assessments, the patient was found to have multiple fractures in various extremities.

Zach had his blood pressure cuff cycling frequently on a different extremity seemingly, with no apparent injuries. Zach began to notice that every time the blood pressure cuff started, the patient would go from acting appropriately for the situation to showing signs of being in severe pain. As soon as the cuff finished, the patient returned to baseline. Zach, being attentive to detail, informed the doctor and requested additional imaging of the aforementioned extremity. The additional imaging (X-ray) showed that the patient had a fracture in that extremity which needed further treatment.

Zach's diligent care and attention to the minute changes in this patient's affect/activity led the team to a new discovery that further aided in proper care for the patient. Zach is never afraid to have a questioning attitude and speak up when it comes to ensuring that his patients are receiving the best care. He is an outstanding advocate for his patients and a standout nurse to work alongside.