I would like to take a moment to recognize two exceptional ED nurses, Ivy Shelub and Jenniffer Lobdell, for their extraordinary professionalism, courage, and commitment to patient care.

A 27-year-old patient was brought in by ambulance from (workplace) after security contacted first responders for an unclear medical emergency. On scene, the patient was hypotensive but responsive and nauseated. EMS administered 4 mg IV Zofran and 250 mL of normal saline prior to arrival. The patient had no known past medical history.

Following CT imaging, the patient’s condition rapidly deteriorated. She was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), began seizing, and was unable to protect her airway. The team quickly intervened, intubating the patient and initiating multiple infusions to stabilize her neurologic and hemodynamic status.

When the decision was made to transfer her to another hospital for higher-level care, no critical care transport unit was immediately available. Despite this significant challenge, Ivy and Jennifer stepped forward without hesitation and volunteered to accompany the patient on a basic transport unit, an action that speaks volumes about their dedication and character.

During transport, one nurse manually maintained the patient’s airway with an Ambu bag while the other expertly managed critical drips and sedation, including administration of mannitol. Their calm demeanor, clinical vigilance, and seamless teamwork ensured this young patient arrived safely and on time to receive the advanced care she urgently needed.

This is what Emergency Nursing looks like at its very best, swift clinical judgment under pressure, fearless advocacy for patients, and a willingness to go above and beyond when it matters most.

I want to sincerely thank Ivy and Jennifer for their bravery, selflessness, and outstanding representation of our department and profession. Their actions today undoubtedly made a difference in this patient’s outcome and reflect the highest standards of emergency care.