Krystal Spain, ADN, RN, CN II

There was a particularly tough night on the Intensive Care Unit when a patient developed an arterial bleed and required a Massive Transfusion Protocol (MTP). There was no Nursing Division Shift Supervisor available, and the unit secretary did not know where the blood bank was. With no runners available, I called the Intermediate Care Unit and asked Krystal Spain if she had a patient care technician who could run to the blood bank. Without hesitation, Krystal immediately volunteered and ran herself.

Krystal not only retrieved the blood products but also stayed to help read and verify the first cooler with me. She made herself available for additional runs to the blood bank, as needed. The rest of the ICU was very busy with ventilator and CRRT alarms, making her assistance even more valuable.

Krystal's willingness to act helped save that patient’s life. Because of her support, we were able to obtain the blood products without delay, stabilize the patient, and get them to the operating room, and they lived.

As a Clinical Coordinator, it is my responsibility to be aware of all available resources, and Krystal is someone I know will always go above and beyond for both patients and colleagues. She recognized a critical need, acted immediately, and demonstrated exceptional teamwork, professionalism, and dedication. Her selfless actions embody the qualities of an extraordinary nurse and make her highly deserving of a DAISY Award nomination.