Melissa is a true advocate for her patients. Recently, one of her patients walked off of the unit and Melissa, as the Charge Nurse did her job and called Security. The patient was found outside in a parking area of the hospital. Security escorted the patient back to the unit and Melissa called the physician. The physician said, just let her go AMA. Knowing her patient's health issues, Melissa was not comfortable with this, and told the physician,"No, this is not right. She can't understand the consequences of her decisions."

Melissa began to ask..."what if something happens to this patient, what then?" These were all good questions, and appropriate concerns. She called her Nurse Manager and she came to the unit to offer assistance and support, but Melissa ran the show. Melissa called the physician again to come and assess the patient. The physician was called a total of 3 times, but still did not arrive. Melissa, knowing she needed assistance, called the Medical Director and he promptly came and assisted in obtaining a psychiatric evaluation on the patient and eventually an order of protection. This patient had a long history of bipolar disorder and was in an extreme manic phase while on the unit. Melissa could have brushed this off and let this patient leave AMA but knew in her heart that it was not right and she needed to do everything she could to protect this patient from herself. It took a great deal of courage and passion to be able to challenge physicians and seek what was right for the patient. Thanks to Melissa for caring so much for your patients!