This summer, a sweet full-term baby boy was born after an uncomplicated labor and delivery. Immediately after the baby was born, Tara, the NICU RN, was handed the newborn to assist with resuscitation. It was immediately determined that the baby did not have a heart rate. Tara called out to have her NICU team immediately come to the bedside to assist with the neonatal resuscitation code.
Over a period of 45 minutes, Tara led her team through intubation, umbilical vein catheterization, chest compressions, respirations, and medication administration. She clearly communicated their team's needs to ensure a smooth resuscitation. Despite the NICU team's efforts, CPR was stopped and the newborn was declared deceased.
Without hesitation, and in front of 14 nurses and providers, Tara wrapped the infant in a blanket and with tears in her eyes, handed the sweet baby boy to his mother to hold for the first time.Tara said to the parent's "I'm so sorry for your loss. Here's your baby, we did everything that we could for him".
In a vulnerable moment for this family, Tara's leadership and composure demonstrated her compassion and professionalism.