Erin Laroe, RN, BSN

Erin was assigned a Spanish-speaking patient who had no support present on a postpartum unit. The patient had an unexpected preterm delivery, and her baby was taken to the NICU. Erin desired to connect with this patient. She sought out resources to help her communicate with this young woman. She spent time using the phone translator service to educate her patient on breast care, fall precautions, and care of the newborn infant. She helped her patient understand what was going on with her baby in the NICU as well as taking her to visit her new baby. She did not allow language to become a barrier in giving exemplary care to this patient. She bridged the gap in the care she was receiving and made a difference in the life of this patient at one of her most vulnerable times.