I would like to recognize CPT Rory Walton for her quick thinking, calm demeanor, and critical care expertise in the operating room during a high-stress situation in which a patient's life was in jeopardy. On the day this occurred, CPT Walton was on-call and was required to stay in-house for a TOLAC (Trial of Labor After Cesarean). After the patient delivered, CPT Walton was no longer required to stay at the hospital. She had been at her home for a half hour when she received a page. It was regarding the same patient who had just delivered but was now bleeding. She came back to the hospital with the intention to set up for an EUA and D&C (exam under anesthesia and dilation and curettage). However, in true Walton fashion, she hoped for the best and prepared for the worst. Under her direction, she and the 68D (surgical technician) set up for the planned procedure. However, they also prepared a separate back table with the necessary instrument sets for an emergent scenario, to include a full instrument count before the patient entered the room. If you know how these things go, you would understand that this no small feat. CPT Walton's clever decision to anticipate the need to convert to an open procedure not only decreased conversion time but also patient risk.
The procedure did, in fact, convert to open with a smooth transition. In addition, the patient required a massive blood transfusion. CPT Walton remained level headed and took initiative by enlisting the help of MNU and Recovery Staff. Her actions and her delegation as a team leader in this situation contributed to a life-saving outcome for the patient. Any operating room nurse would recognize how difficult and challenging an emergent procedure with limited resources during the midnight hours can be. Therefore, I commend CPT Walton for her outstanding professionalism amongst her peers, for thinking ahead to promote safety and decrease risk, and for providing the best possible care to her patient during a time of crisis.