Patient J is in outpatient Infusion for his fourth infusion of Remicade. Remicade is a monoclonal antibody and as such has a known propensity for risk of infusion reactions. This patient had no history of reacting with this drug on prior visits.
The patient began the infusion, and Tara noticed he was becoming fidgety, and "not himself." The Patient did not recognize or report that he was beginning to have reportable symptoms. His reaction symptoms quickly progressed and intensified.
Tara Zane, the RN, according to patient report "Sprang into action before I knew what was happening! She was like a speeding bullet - and not a stray bullet, either! She was totally focused and right on target. Not only did Tara recognize the reaction before I did, she made me feel safe and as comfortable as possible, knowing I was in an emergency situation. She had everything totally under control, and kept me from becoming scared out of my wits knowing that I was having a reaction." He continued to tell this manager: "I was so overwhelmed and happy to be alive that when I left I forgot to thank her, I want to come and give her a hug and tell her how much I appreciate her expertise, her professionalism and her gentle, caring, and calm demeanor. And, for being my saving angel on that day."
The Patient went to Pavilion B to personally recognize Tara after his phone conversation with this manager.