One of our nurses, Christopher Hatmaker, RN had a late walk-in on a Friday afternoon. The patient reported his complaint as "need to see someone in mental health". Christopher went out to the waiting room to find the patient blankly staring out the window, he would not respond to Christopher when he attempted to speak to him. The patient remained despondent but began stomping his feet and digging his feet into the floor. Finally, Christopher was able to engage the patient and get him to agree to triage and ER evaluation. Christopher's calm demeanor and persistent attention quite literally helped get this patient to the right care at the right time. He collaborated with VA Police and ER staff to ensure his needs were not only met but that he was safe.
In the day and time of mental health crises and high rates of suicide, it is care like that provided by Mr. Hatmaker that can really make the difference. He is a valuable asset to our Primary Care Clinics and the VA overall.