Solim Tchedre, BSN, RN is a dedicated night shift weekend RN whose actions speak volumes in regard to her passion and dedication for those who are misunderstood and troubled.

On a night in August, Solim Tchedre was presented with a highly emotional situation that originated in maternity and not in our home unit. She could tell that both staff and patient emotions were high and that there seemed to be an urgency to move a patient to the behavioral health holding area. Solim immediately went to the other department as this was a high transfer request. She made multiple attempts to ask questions of those involved to understand all surrounding circumstances and later stated to her peers that she could tell that the urgency of transfer took precedence in the eyes of the providers even though she was unable to put her finger on exactly the circumstances that prompted the transfer request. Nonetheless, Solim asked for time to speak with the new mother alone, and she took the time to listen to a severely distressed patient who also happened to have a mental health history. Solim sat with the patient and listened with an open mind and with the heart of a mother. The atmosphere in the room de-escalated because Solim allowed the patient time to process what was happening and gave her the freedom to express her fears and concerns without judgment.

Solim’s actions offered the patient the much-needed support for her to calm herself without the use of medication or physical restraints. Four hours post-cesarean and also her first birthing experience, one could only imagine the stress she was feeling. This patient was clearly experiencing all sorts of emotions and was undoubtedly scared. Solim explained to the patient what our unit was like, assured her that she would be kept safe, and thoroughly explained what to expect in order to reduce any added fears or misconceptions.

Solim may not have done anything one might call heroic in this instance, but she did what any excellent nurse would do and that is listen to her patient. Through Solim's kindness and genuine caring spirit, the young new mom transferred to our unit peacefully and was able to gain some most needed rest for her body and mind to begin to heal. Solim truly exemplifies being authentically present in the moment. She is not only a role model for patience and understanding for all nurses, she is a valuable asset to this team and a blessing to our patient population.