Sean Quinn
July 2016
Sean
Quinn
,
RN
Emergency Department
Saint Agnes Medical Center
Fresno
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

Sean was nominated for his quick action in intervening to save the life of a patient who was refusing medical attention. When the patient refused medical care, the paramedic sought to call a RMCT (Refusal of Medical Care and Treatment) on the patient.
Concerned and flagging this as a possible crisis situation, Sean had the paramedic get the patient on the phone. He then explained the situation to Dr. S and had her intervene to see if she could convince the patient to seek medical treatment. Eventually, the patient consented and was admitted to the Saint Agnes ED where it was discovered that he had a dissecting aortic aneurysm requiring emergent surgery. Sean's quick thinking diffused the situation and ultimately saved the patient's life.
When these situations arise, it is comforting to know that our nurses and physicians are willing to push above and beyond to advocate in such a manner, even communicating directly to patients while they are still out in the field regarding the gravity of their crisis to convince them that the best option in the moment is to seek immediate care.