During a recent shift, Jordan spent hours at the bedside with a patient going through a struggle with addiction. He took the time to sit with the patient, actively listening. He provided reassurance to this tearful patient, acknowledging the validity of his lived experience and his continued worth to the world. This was a critical time in the patient's treatment and potentially his recovery from his addiction.

By listening to the patient, Jordan was able to identify unspoken concerns that the patient did not feel comfortable voicing initially. He reassured the patient, always letting him know that he was there to help and care for him.

This allowed us to get tests and provide treatment that I otherwise do not think would have been attained. I was concerned the patient was going to escalate his behaviors and we would end up needing to get law enforcement involved. Jordan kept a calm environment, staying at the bedside nearly his entire shift, or returning to the bedside whenever the patient was confused or upset.

It allowed us to fully assess and treat the patient to the best of our abilities. During the hours that Jordan cared for this patient, he showed a level of respect that was reciprocated. This allowed us to care for the patient, who was initially uncooperative and potentially very ill. He continued to foster this trust with the patient, showing how ethical treatment combined with compassion and respect can help us to give the best care to our patients.

Jordan truly inspired me to reassess how I interact with this type of patient whom we see often in our ED. To realize that I needed to spend more time at the bedside, allowing the patient to speak and to listen, supporting the patient in any goal they may have for that visit. Simply put, the needs of this patient came first to Jordan. He is an example of clinical and personal excellence to all.