Maura is an exemplary nurse who personifies all aspects of the Rush University Medical Center Professional Nursing Practice Model. Recently, though, Maura has cared for an incredibly complex patient and her ability to critically think, process information and act on behalf of the patient came front and center. Maura has cared for an infant with a congenital heart defect and acute renal failure requiring dialysis. Throughout one of the shifts, the patient's condition began to change. Maura was able to escalate her concerns to the physician team which led to quick interventions. The infant was ultimately diagnosed with late-onset GSB septicemia.
Despite having a technically complex room with frequent changes in patient condition, the staff has commented, and I have been able to observe Maura has never forgotten the fragile infant who is in the center of all the technology and intervention. She cares for the patients in such a gentle, respectful manner and does her best to create a calm, healing atmosphere.