Brandye Shoemake
August 2025
Brandye
Shoemake
,
RN, BSN
Rapid Response
SSM Saint Louis University Hospital
St Louis
United States

 

 

 

Once the doors were opened, Brandye entered and began to assist S in providing medical attention to the driver
A rapid response was called for a report of two unconscious males in a vehicle that was sitting in the main driveway out front by the main entrance. The vehicle was running, in gear, with the driver’s foot on the brake. Both occupants were unconscious, heads slumped over, and did not appear to be breathing. After several attempts by our Officers, the occupants could not be woken up. As a result of every door on the vehicle being locked, and the obvious observation of a medical emergency, Officers were left with no choice but to break out a window of the car to provide entry. Immediately after the window was broken, S stepped up and stated she would reach through to open the door since she had on a long-sleeved jacket. She then proceeded to enter the vehicle, placed it in park, and began addressing the medical issues of the driver while opening the door so we could gain access. It should be noted, there were suspected illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia in plain sight around the driver’s area. Once the doors were opened, Brandye entered and began to assist S in providing medical attention to the driver. At one point, they were unable to get a pulse on the driver and began to administer CPR. Upon assessing the scene, they immediately assessed that Narcan was needed, which was promptly administered. Eventually, a stretcher was brought to the scene, and the driver was extracted and taken to the ED. The passenger finally regained consciousness and was able to speak, who was also taken to the ED for medical attention. The quick response and immediate actions of both Brandye and S definitely were lifesaving factors for both patients who were rescued from the vehicle. In addition, their assistance in this matter also helped secure this vehicle from causing any damage or injuries. From the distinct and humble honor I have had to work alongside many, if not all, of the rapid team members, action and response like this in the face of dangerous situations is commonplace and carried out with selfless bravery and precise medical expertise. In this instance, the actions and response by nurses S and Brandye reflect the heart and skill they both possess.
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This is Brandye's 2nd DAISY Award!