I was working the urgent care area where the CERT team adds in patients who need to be seen, but can't see the primary oncologist. DNP Liz Lester had a patient come. I brought her back and when I heard her complaint, I thought, "Why are you coming in NOW?" This elderly lady was complaining of a chronic cough that she had for two years! I thought to myself, "There is nothing our DNP can do for you." 

Liz came to the chair side of this patient. I was very impressed as this patient told of all her disjointed care from various doctors from various cities. She couldn't sleep at all. A doctor had recently given her PO 10 mg of Lasix. She went on and on about seeing an allergist, lung doctor, and cardiologist. None had found out what was wrong. Liz listened intently. She listened for a good 45 minutes. She listened to her chest, did an ECG, and told her that she could hear fluid in her lungs. She also said she thought she might have emphysema. She ordered another test for her lungs. Then she had me give her a breathing treatment and IV Lasix. She told me that the lasix she was taking PO was not enough. She sent a message to her oncologist about what she saw. By the time the patient left, her cough was almost gone just by the interventions that Liz prescribed. Liz said she was pretty sure she knew what was wrong. This lady was also going to have surgery coming up in the next week. Liz used to work with evaluations for surgeries to consider "risks vs benefit". She also let the team know that this lady was at very high risk to go to surgery right now. When the patient left, she said, "For the first time in two years, I feel hope that something is going to be done to help me." I was so impressed by Liz. She was caring and compassionate and faced head-on the problem this lady was having. Whether it was a chronic or an acute problem, Liz not only listened, she acted on it. I am so proud to have a DNP like Liz.