I saw a patient in Clinic today who is currently receiving care at Froedtert in Milwaukee for acute leukemia, now in remission. She is undergoing biweekly infusions of Niktimvo for Graft-vs-Host Disease (GVHD). The patient expressed interest in transferring her care to Grayslake, where she resides, to reduce travel time — so initially, it seemed like a routine visit.

Our new Nurse Navigator, Michelle Banholzer, requested to join the visit since this was a new patient. As we spoke further, we learned that the patient suffers from a chronic pain syndrome related to her GVHD. She has been seen in the wound clinic for painful leg sores and has also visited the Pain Clinic and Neurology, unfortunately without relief.

We discussed a referral to our Palliative Care team, and with some encouragement, the patient agreed. After I left the room, Michelle asked to spend additional time with the patient.

During that conversation, Michelle uncovered that the patient was experiencing profound depression due to her condition and chronic pain — to the extent that she was suicidal and had a specific plan. Michelle immediately informed me, and I returned to speak with the patient. She confirmed her suicidal thoughts and plan. We agreed that she should go to the ER for psychiatric evaluation and admission for pain management.

Michelle’s decision to take the extra time to explore the patient’s emotional state was critical. Her compassionate and thorough approach likely prevented a tragic outcome.