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Mr. Witt’s Stroke
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Sophie checks on Mr. Witt early on Monday morning. He has been a resident for the past six months and always enjoys talking with Sophie about what happened when she was not working. This Monday, Mr. Witt doesn’t ask many questions and seems more tired than usual to Sophie. She takes his blood pressure, pulse, and respiration, and these vital signs are in the normal range. She records his vital signs and makes a mental note to check on him more often.
A few hours later, Sophie stops by Mr. Witt’s room. Usually, he’s in the lounge playing cards with other residents, but today he’s sitting in a chair looking out the window. When he sees Sophie, he starts to get up but seems to lose his balance and sits back down. Sophie’s concern grows. She asks Mr. Witt to smile for her to see if there is any drooping of his face and then asks him to raise his arms to look for weakness or drooping. When she asks Mr. Witt a question, he has trouble speaking clearly. Sophie fears Mr. Witt is having a stroke.
Sophie rings the call button for help and stays with Mr. Witt to monitor his breathing and to keep him calm. When another nursing assistant arrives, Sophie sends the nursing assistant for the nurse on duty who comes quickly. The nurse on duty agrees with Sophie that there is a possible emergency and arranges for Mr. Witt’s transfer to the hospital.
Because of Sophie’s observations and diligence, Mr. Witt received treatment quickly and was able to resume his regular routine in the days ahead.