As charge nurse, Amanda rounded to patient rooms for initial assessment and communication. She entered the room of a young female to find a leather belt on the patient's upper arm being used as a tourniquet. Amanda approached the patient and asked for the drugs she was intending to administer. The drugs were given to Amanda.

Her calm demeanor allowed trust to be gained by the patient. The nursing supervisor and security were involved to secure the patient room from further drugs and ensure safety. What made Amanda extraordinary in this scenario is the calm and respectful treatment of the patient. Safety concerns were discussed, which included the patient and hospital staff. The patient was told of options for help.

Amanda validated the patient by giving her a listening ear, guidance, and a hug. She was not ridiculed for drug use. Amanda rendered compassion to a patient. This type of acceptance may be more helpful to this girl than anything she sees in a rehab program. I hope she will always feel valued like the day my coworker, Amanda Jude, showed compassion, not judgment.