Cortney was assigned to one of the most challenging cases on med/surg and diligently worked on this case from the date of admission to the date of discharge, almost eight months. During this extensive period, Cortney experienced many barriers and had to navigate through many setbacks in order to coordinate a safe discharge for the patient, all while providing passionate care. Cortney had advocated for this patient from day of admission and continued to do so even with more vigor when patient was refused by other VA’s and community providers at multiple locations.

The patient had left her community nursing home, AMA, and was brought to FHCC by her guardian for medical care. Her mental health had deteriorated, and she was medically compromised due to non-compliance, needing dialysis. Cortney worked effortlessly with the patient’s guardian, who, by the way, was not the easiest to get ahold of. She continued to reach out, and her tenacity never wavered. She was committed to finding a place for this patient where all her needs could be met. During this hospital stay the patient’s fiduciary was also changed.

Cortney educated staff (other nurses, MSAs, MDs) on a regular basis about the best way to work with the patient. This patient was demanding and resourceful. Cortney took the time to speak with her whenever asked and answered hundreds of phone calls, as the patient tended to persevere on ideas.

In an attempt to secure placement with dialysis capabilities, Cortney reached out to over ten different facilities and spoke multiple times with admission coordinators and directors in an attempt to find an appropriate location for the patient. The patient was denied again and again, but Cortney never gave up. She used her clinical and critical thinking skills while attending multiple meetings with local dialysis companies and JBVA, advocating on the patient’s behalf.

Cortney attended and participated in weekly discharge planning meetings with the team, other units, and leadership. Although the patient was not accepted for multiple reasons, Cortney continued to use her clinical nursing skills, explain her complex medical case, and address her mental health treatment.

After eight intense months, Cortney was able to secure long-term placement for this patient and arrange dialysis.