We had a patient come to the Emergency Department today with slurred speech. We were somewhat busy at the time. Initially, there was not an entirely clear etiology as she was brought back to her room. Sherry Daugherty saw the patient quickly and identified other symptoms of stroke that were more subtle (double vision, clumsiness of the right arm - but not weakness or numbness which is easier to identify). Sherry also identified the symptom onset, and noted the patient was, indeed, in the tPA window.

Sherry grabbed me quickly and we got the ball rolling. Dr. F was called and the patient received tPA. The patient returned to baseline and has fully recovered.

This was a great pick-up and expert assessment on Sherry’s part. Had this not been noted timely, this patient may not be doing nearly as well.

Sherry is a team player and treats her patients like they are members of her family. She is conscientious in her work and a nursing professional to the highest degree. She is truly an asset to our Emergency Department.