On October 7th, Jill Radovich RN had a critical patient situation which resulted in the need for the rapid response team call. I’m always amazed when witnessing the professionalism that is displayed at these critical moments and specifically in this instance with Jill. From the moment that the RRT was called, Jill was proficient with communicating the needs of the patient. From explaining the situation to the several resident physicians that responded, to making prompt requests with what supplies and equipment was needed, Jill was right on top of it.
The patient being post-op hemicolectomy suddenly developed severe rigors and was quite hypertensive, tachycardic, and febrile. During that time, I was impressed with the ease of which she handled the situation and how well she kept her composure. It was also particularly difficult to communicate with the patient because he was Spanish speaking only. Jill made the point to seek out a staff member that spoke Spanish and utilized nonverbal communication as well by holding the patients hand during the examination by the surgeon. Sometimes we forget in critical situations like this one, when we are so focused on the patient’s symptoms, that there is a person’s fear that we also need to acknowledge. So I was touched that Jill made that effort to comfort the patient by holding his hand.
Jill is a confident nurse and that was truly displayed on this day. Her exemplary professionalism could not go unrecognized in this situation.