Nathan is an exceptional RN in our emergency department with extensive clinical knowledge that helped to save a patient's life.

A patient arrived at triage, presenting with chest pain. Nathan's assessment immediately recognized the critical nature of this man. He was pale, diaphoretic, and in extreme pain. Understanding the need for rapid intervention, Nathan obtained an EKG while he had another nurse start an IV, all while still in triage. The initial interpretation of the EKG was deemed non-indicative of a STEMI by the physician. However, Nathan's clinical judgment led him to trust his instincts and take the initiative to repeat the EKG a few minutes later.

Nathan brought the EKG back to the provider and explained his assessment and sincere concern for the patient. Thanks to this incredible patient advocacy, the EKGs revealed that the patient was indeed having a heart attack. The patient was then rushed back to a room and shortly later to the Cath lab for timely intervention to be performed.

Had it not been for Nathan's keen observation and his willingness to question the initial EKG interpretation, the patient would not have received the timely care he needed. At the Cath lab, the patient was shown to have a 99% occlusion, and because of Nathan, he is now doing well! Nathan’s patient advocacy and skill helped to save this man's life that day.