Katheryne, her husband, and her two small children were returning home from a beach vacation when in mid-flight, the airline attendant requested the assistance of any medical personnel on board. Katheryne, along with a firefighter, were the only two to volunteer to help an ill teenage girl, who was flying all alone. Katheryne quickly assessed the girl, noting her color was poor, her heart rate rapid, and her level on consciousness decreasing. Katheryne immediately took command of the situation. Utilizing her keen assessment skills, she obtained vital signs and a record of the girl's medications and medical conditions.
Katheryne was able to ascertain that the teen was dehydrated and quite possibly hypoglycemic. Under airline protocol and ACLS guidelines, Katheryne started an IV and began administering IV fluids. She delegated tasks to the firefighter assisting her and had the airline attendant radio for an ambulance and the girl's mother to be waiting upon arrival. Katheryne stayed with the teenager through the remainder of the flight, keeping the girl's feet elevated and getting her to drink some fluids. As the plane began the descent into Indianapolis, the girl's consciousness improved to where she was able to converse clearly with Katheryne, her color returned, and her pulse and blood pressure stabilized. Once the plane landed, the teen was taken to an ambulance.
Katheryne went out of her way to introduce herself to the girl's mother, assuring her that she was well taken care of. It is my opinion that through Katheryne's compassion, quick thinking, and diligence, she saved this young person's life. In a time when people are hesitant to offer help, fearing contagious disease, fearing a future lawsuit, Katheryne was not afraid. She selflessly did what had to be done, what she expects of herself, and what any mother would want for their child. Here and away front the hospital, Katheryne truly has the strength it takes.