Efigenia G Avance
February 2026
Efigenia G
Avance
,
BSN, RN
6D
Central Arkansas Veteran's Healthcare System
Little Rock
,
AR
United States
Although it wasn't her assigned patient, Effie stepped right in to help
I am a relatively new nurse, working at the VA for 1.5 years. I had a bladder surgery patient who was on continuous bladder irrigation (CBI) immediately following the procedure. With over 45 years of nursing experience, Efigenia (Effie) noticed the linen stains on the patient's stretcher when he arrived. Effie alerted me and said, "This patient has a clot. Anytime you see blood on the sheets of a CBI patient, that means there's a serious problem. We have to remove all clots in order for the CBI to function properly; otherwise, his bladder may burst." We immediately contacted Urology, explained the situation, and received orders to dislodge the clots. Effie proceeded to expertly remove each clot, coaching me on the materials, supplies, and methods to remove the clot and monitor subsequent urinary flow. There were many clots; every time we dislodged one clot, another one showed up. Although it wasn't her assigned patient, Effie stepped right in to help, all the while educating and coaching me on the things to look out for and how to manage CBI issues. I learned, later, that Effie worked for 12 years in a urology unit at another hospital. Effie exemplifies the ICARE principles of the VA through her integrity, commitment, advocacy, respect, and professional excellence. Effie was a patient and thorough teacher to this nurse, and I am grateful and honored to learn from such an experienced, thoughtful, and humble nurse.