March 30, 2021 - TCO

Difference Maker: Allan W.

When we ask patients and their families about their experience, we often hear it’s the little things that make all the difference.

Every month we recognize a team member who went above and beyond to make a difference in the life of others. Often, they did something that, if you asked them, “was no big deal,” or “is just part of their job.” But the truth is, their actions inspired others around them.

As a small token of our appreciation for making our organization a better place, we partnered with local artist Claire Ward to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art featuring an image of the recipient’s choosing.

Today, we’d like to thank Allan for being a Difference Maker.

Allan’s Story

What a patient thought was just lower back pain, turned out to be a life-threatening emergency.

One evening at TCO’s Blaine Orthopedic Urgent Care clinic, clinical assistant and athletic trainer Allan faced a complicated situation.

Repeatedly, Allan’s patient told him that he “didn’t feel well.” Asking all the right questions and taking the patient’s concerns very seriously, Allan began to realize there was much more going on than just back pain.

After taking the patient’s vital signs, Allan determined his blood pressure was elevated to an extremely dangerous level. Knowing he needed to act fast, Allan asked for guidance from a co-worker to help evaluate the situation.

Trent Whitcomb, PA, determined the patient was in the midst of a hypertensive emergency with symptoms of an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Quickly, Allan retrieved the AED and helped Trent perform treatment and further evaluation as they waited for the EMTs to arrive. Because of Allan’s quick thinking, expertise, and overall care, the patient’s life was saved.

Thank you, Allan, for leading with integrity, providing patients with high-quality care, and for always being a great teammate. You are truly valued and appreciated!