Hannah Warrick
March 2026
Hannah
Warrick
,
RN
Mother Baby
ECU Health North Hospital
Roanoke Rapids
,
NC
United States
Hannah advocated for her patient and saved the life of the mother and her baby.
Hannah had a patient who had been laboring for 26 hours at the time. The doctor came in to break her water, and after breaking her water, Hannah took the initiative to perform her own cervical exam after the doctor left the room to verify the doctor's exam. She noticed that something felt odd and began to note blood and clots in her glove. She also noticed the fetal strip began to look more concerning. She requested the MD reexamine the patient. The MD was not agreeable, so Hannah took accountability for her patient's safety and escalated her concerns to her manager and then to the Chief OB. Hannah suspected, based on her experience, knowledge, and safety habits, that the patient had Placenta Previa. After escalating her concern through multiple channels, she was given a telephone order for a bedside ultrasound to be performed by a tech and interpreted by a Radiologist. After the ultrasound was performed, it was determined that the patient did, in fact, have Placenta Previa, and an urgent C-section was called within minutes of the diagnosis. This type of condition does not allow for a vaginal delivery. A C-section is necessary and recommended 100% of the time. Had the patient continued to labor, it would have risked not only her baby's life, but her own as well. The patient was also Spanish-speaking, creating an even more difficult situation for the patient and family due to the language barrier. Hannah advocated for her patient and saved the life of the mother and her baby. This is the type of event that should be celebrated. This type of event deserves recognition and inspires staff. I can't think of anyone more deserving of this award than Hannah. She shows integrity and compassion and utilizes her vast education and skills daily. She takes accountability and does what she knows is right in all circumstances, promotes safety habits, and is a true team player. I am honored to be her coworker and her friend.