Kara was the primary care nurse for a patient who was admitted as an ambulance transfer. While en route to University Hospital, the patient shared with staff that she was afraid of her significant other and thought he might be poisoning her. Once they arrived, the significant other rarely left the patient's side.
Kara quickly built rapport with the patient and gained her trust. At some point, Kara and the patient worked out a 'code' that the patient could use if she felt afraid and needed help.
Kara said the situation escalated and hospital security and the MU Police Department became involved. Kara said, "I was beginning to feel very uncomfortable, and did not believe I could properly discuss issues or give proper care without the significant other interrupting or disagreeing."
While the appropriate departments managed the significant other, Grimes ensured the patient's safe care in addition to coordinating with her family, so the patient's children would remain safe.