One night, Kevin arrived at our unit to assist with a Code Blue. During the long and difficult code, Kevin helped us record and gave us continued support. Following this situation, an overhead staff assist alarm was heard, and Kevin, along with me, ran down the hall to help. A patient had fallen and Kevin was first-hand helping us get him back to bed.

During the aftermath of the fall, a DNR patient had just passed away with a dozen family members present. The family was overwrought, almost frenetic, and neither my Charge Nurse nor I knew how to manage the situation. Kevin remained calm and helped us contain the family in the patient’s room. We were able to bring in extra staff, a Chaplain, and a Child Life Specialist.

Kevin stayed with the family for hours while they were yelling cries of grief. His steadfast leadership and calm demeanor truly helped me and our unit through this unbelievably difficult night. I am so thankful to have Kevin as one of our AOD’s.