An Advocate for Patient Safety

Recently, a Nurse Leader noticed something that didn't seem quite right and took the time to speak up. Because of that attention to detail and willingness to ask questions, a potential patient safety risk was identified and addressed before it could have a broader impact. What began as a single observation led to the discovery of a system-wide issue, demonstrating the impact one person can have by speaking up. Our patients are safer when team members stay engaged, trust their instincts, and raise concerns when something doesn't seem right. 

Thank you to our ICU team, and especially Mary Koonce, for demonstrating the vigilance, critical thinking, and patient advocacy that make a difference. Sometimes the most important safety interventions don't happen at a bedside or in a procedure. They happen when someone notices a detail, asks a question, and takes action. This is a great example of how a strong safety culture protects patients and why every voice matters.