Being in the nursing profession we are often faced with choices in conflict with our principles and sometimes the conflict is related to our policies. Here at Ontario we always talk about how the patient is the center of everything we do and to ask ourselves before doing anything “is this in the best interest of the patient?”
ICU received a patient in very critical condition with the diagnosis of a dissecting aortic aneurysm. This patient required emergency surgery immediately. The physician had already called the Kaiser Sunset cardiologist and arranged for the patient to have surgery immediately upon his arrival. Everything was prepared for him at Sunset, however the only problem was that the patient was not there. The ambulance service was called to pick up the patient, but the charge nurse was informed by the ambulance service that they did not have a critical care nurse and would not have one available for at least 90 minutes. Due to the many drips infusing a critical care nurse was necessary otherwise the patient would not be able to travel.
Ordinarily we would be forced to wait until a critical care nurse was available. None of our nurses are expected to transfer patients via ambulance. The ACD informed the staff of the situation and explained that we cannot make anyone go but asked if anyone was willing. Without a moment hesitation, Leyna volunteered despite the present load she was managing. She immediately reported off to her fellow nurses and prepared her patient for transfer to Sunset for surgery.
This was such a selfless act of compassion on her behalf, Leyna put the patient first and remembered that as care givers we are here to serve and meet the needs of our patients while ensuring that no harm comes to them. Leyna’s dedication is an example for all to learn from. Thanks to Leyna, this patient was given a chance to continue experiencing life. It is with great pride that I call her a colleague.