I am the psychologist who covers inpatient medicine service. Yesterday, I was contacted by the medicine team to see a veteran who is currently hospitalized, who was in a great deal of distress due to concerns over his cardiac issues. His status was currently pending MRI, and a longstanding appointment today for treatment of his macular degeneration. The veteran was understandably upset that missing his eye appointment could cause further damage to his vision, yet checking out of the hospital AMA prior to receiving MRI could result in serious cardiac concerns. I met with the patient and we were able to discuss problem solving.
This morning, as I am just about to head to the floor for follow up, I reviewed the chart to find that the veteran has been taken for his MRI. This is due largely to the efforts of his overnight nurse, Jamie Titzer.
Per the overnight nursing care plan, Jamie appears to have gone above and beyond in advocating for this veteran. She logged that the patient was anxious and worried about what was going to happen to him. She spoke to MRI techs and advocated for the patient to get in as soon as possible. Jamie also coordinated VA transport to take the patient to his eye appointment. In the end, the patient got his MRI, and it is all thanks to Jamie.
Jamie's actions represent a key example of the ICARE philosophy and have made a substantial difference in this veteran's care and wellbeing. These things are the kind of things that often go unnoticed, which is unfortunate. I have never met Jamie to my knowledge, but am so grateful for the care that she provided to this veteran.