I would like to recognize the exceptional care a nurse within our setting provided to our mutual patient today.  This care was demonstrated in an encounter we had with a patient that represents the epitome of a vulnerable Parkland patient. The patient involved was 83, hard of hearing, and she spoke only Mandarin. As the treating provider, I put in a few referrals as a courtesy for the patient. Due to the language barrier, I found it very important that this patient have a good understanding of pending follow-ups.  Typically, referrals are submitted and followed up upon review which would have meant that this patient would be being contacted by a multitude of sites or be tasked to do self-consultation themselves. Thus, my concern was that with the language barrier that existed, there may be an inherent risk with potential loss of follow-up.  At times, the system is difficult enough for our English-speaking patients, let alone for those with rare or uncommon languages. This nurse went a LONG way out of her way to ensure that the patient's appointments got scheduled for them by calling the clinics where she needed appointments and conferring with the patient to make sure she could get the information and understood what the plan was. Thus ensuring this patient would have access to those sites referred to.  

This is a wonderful demonstration of the values we should always strive to obtain, and it reinforces this nurse’s self-accountability that provides service with compassion and integrity in a collaborative manner that is patient focused.

As a provider, I really appreciate having teammates who go the extra mile to ensure that the patients here get the care they need, especially the most vulnerable ones.