Gunshot wounds, some fatal, some minor, plagued the Lanier Campus Emergency Department on an early September morning. This scenario was somewhat unconventional for this small rural emergency department and was quite a frightening experience for all involved.
The ED nurses at Lanier are trained in ACLS, PALS, and have always demonstrated an ability to rise to a challenge; I never once doubted their capabilities. However, I couldn't help but ponder how Miranda Pruitt must have felt.
It is a frightening moment when you find yourself in charge of a small rural emergency department being inundated with numerous gunshot wound victims. You are not only responsible for patient care, but responsible for maintaining a safe environment for your staff and your patients. What a challenge!
I was personally notified of the situation and immediately responded to the scene. My initial thoughts were to assist in whatever capacity needed (nursing, security, etc.) When I arrived, I was comforted by the fact that Miranda had taken control of this unfavorable situation; all patients and staff were safe. Miranda was the delegator; the person in control, the one who never once faltered in delivering compassionate, competent, and safe care.
At one point, I found her standing behind a door sobbing over the loss of her friend, the victim. Although she was torn with grief, fear, and fatigue, her patients nor colleagues never witnessed her emotions. Miranda became my champion that day!