Joan Thompson-Greene
September 2024
Joan
Thompson-Greene
,
RN
Home Telehealth
Hampton VA Healthcare System
Hampton
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

Nurse Thompson-Greene encouraged the spouse to call 911 and remained on the line with both the spouse and the Veteran until emergency services arrived.
Nurse Joan Thompson-Greene contacted a Veteran regarding low blood pressure and an elevated heart rate. During their conversation, the Veteran and his spouse reported that he was having trouble breathing, had no appetite, and experienced a coughing spell that produced a mouthful of thick, yellow phlegm. Nurse Thompson-Greene instructed the spouse to provide the Veteran with water, recheck his vitals, and relay them to her. His blood pressure continued to drop while his heart rate rose. At that moment, Nurse Thompson-Greene urged them to seek emergency medical attention, and the call was ended. However, the Veteran’s spouse called Nurse Thompson-Greene back because they were unable to lift the Veteran due to his weakness. Nurse Thompson-Greene encouraged the spouse to call 911 and remained on the line with both the spouse and the Veteran until emergency services arrived. The Veteran was admitted to Sentara Leigh ICU for septic shock. The Veteran’s spouse left a heartfelt message for Nurse Thompson-Greene, thanking her for saving her husband’s life. Without her monitoring of his vitals and ongoing follow-up calls, the Veteran might not have sought medical assistance. Not only are the Veteran and his spouse grateful, but I am as well, to work alongside an RN who cares deeply and consistently demonstrates diligence in her role.