I worked with Brad on unit 6-3600(Burn/Trauma) before moving to 5-1400. I was a new nurse on the unit and learned a great deal from every nurse there. However, there is nobody like Brad Brooks. When a seasoned co-worker had an issue, they went to Brad. When leadership had an issue, they went to Brad. He's just one of those nurses who has a vast knowledge base of "book smarts" and "nurse smarts" that will without a doubt solve your problem. He has a background in military medicine. As a new nurse, I wasn't able to shadow him but as I grew over a couple years, I became more interested in how he functions so well. He is so efficient at his work with a hand-written "brain" of things to do, that he always has time to help others.
I could describe many situations where he saved the day, but one, in particular, comes to mind. I was just off orientation and had a patient on oxygen. My patient was on continuous pulse ox monitoring so I noticed very quickly when the oxygen level dropped. My patient's nasal cannula was still in place so I tried many nursing interventions without results. I asked Brad to assess the patient and assist. He did so without hesitation. He greeted the patient and put her at ease. Demonstrating complete compassion and respect, Brad noticed that the cannula had become detached from the O2. He not only solved the problem with ease, but he taught me one of many valuable lessons. His work in a code is also amazing.
After 3 three years working with Brad, I transferred to another department. I often think of this amazing nurse and how every new nurse should be as lucky to have a mentor who is as good as Brad. He jumps in when a patient is declining, offering to help when the nurse doesn't even know that he/she needs help yet. He teaches tips and tricks to make patients' days in the hospital a little easier. He has the patients' best interests at heart and will advocate in the best way possible to achieve the best care for the patient. He uses best practices daily and goes above and beyond on each shift. As charge nurse, he makes sure that everything is taken care of to ensure a smooth handoff for nurses and patients. Brad has saved many lives and taught many nurses how to be great. Every unit needs a Brad.