Sonya was the PACU nurse for a patient who underwent an open ventral hernia repair. In PACU the patient stated unrelieved severe pain despite medication administration and repositioning. The patient self-reported that he is "hypersensitive" to touch and trauma. Sonya was very compassionate and tried every alternative therapy appropriate to help relieve his pain. Despite being very cautious with sedative medications, the patient developed acute hypoxia secondary to splinting and only taking shallow breaths.

Sonya was very alert to his changing condition and notified Anesthesia for assistance in managing his severe pain and declining respiratory status. Sonya stayed three hours past the end of her shift to care for this patient. At times he was demanding and was extremely anxious. Sonya remained calm which helped calm the patient. She explained everything she was doing to help. She never lost her patience and at no time did she attempt to hurry and rush him out of PACU so she could go home. Her staying after her shift is a great example of teamwork. It allowed others to be able to take care of their patients without having to split their attention between patients. Sonya is a fierce advocate for her patients and never cuts corners to make it easier on herself. Her dedication and her compassion are evident in all she does!