Brenda was in charge of staffing. There was a young woman who had coded in the IMCU. She was transferred to the ICU and assigned to Brenda. The young woman coded two more times in the ICU. Brenda was in her room for several hours assisting the physician with putting in a central line, arterial line and administering all the meds ordered. She also assisted the pulmonologist.

Not once did Brenda complain about being overwhelmed. A few hours later the intensivist was concerned about this young woman’s neurological status and ordered a STAT head CT. This young woman was not to some of us, stable for a trip to CT. Brenda, without hesitancy, loaded up all necessary equipment and with the assistance of RT and transport took this patient for head CT. She knew that here was a high probability of this woman coding again in transit, but she knew that it had to be done.

After the CT the woman was airlifted to another hospital. Brenda’s response to the emergent need of the head CT, this young woman was given the best chance of survival. That day Brenda was that family’s hero and a role model for all of us ICU nurses. I am proud to work beside her and look forward to learning more from her. She gives her all every day and as a charge assures that her team/co-workers are safe and fell heard!