Rachel Buchanan
April 2020
Rachel
Buchanan
,
RN, CRNA
Anesthesia
Concord Hospital
Concord
,
NH
United States

 

 

 

Rachel has always been known to go above and beyond for her patients. Her attention to detail and advocacy for the patient speaks volumes about the standard of care she gives. Specifically, she cared for this patient who was in dire need of emergent help. He was intubated and bleeding profusely, receiving a massive transfusion. There were multiple providers caring for this patient but she was able to keep her head clear and adjust medications, treatments, and the plan of care to the quickly moving target as the patient needs were changing frequently. After the source of bleeding was controlled and the patient was stable, Rachel shifted her attention to the patient's dignity and asked for a bucket of water and washcloths. She carefully washed off the blood, changed dressings, and the ET securing device. I stood in the OR, watching this act of compassion with such appreciation. With all the technical things that could have been done, she prioritized this patient's dignity and took the time to stop and help. She was cleaning this man's face and hair because it was the right thing to do. She does the right thing, even if it's not convenient or easy, or her job. She truly makes the patients' needs and priorities her own.