Security guard’s quick thinking saves patient

JP Smith tries to look over everyone who comes through UCHealth Grandview Hospital’s doors.

As a security officer, his job is to protect patients and staff. He did just that when a man in his 60s came through the front door of the 22-bed hospital in north-central Colorado Springs last fall. Smith saw the man’s drooping face and what appeared to be difficulty walking. Smith recalled the hospital’s recent all-staff stroke care certification trainings and  “BE FAST” acronym (Balance, Eyes, Face, Arms, Speech and Time).

Smith quickly escorted the man to emergency care providers.

“His quick action saved a life,”  said Tami Hollister, emergency nursing supervisor. “He saw something and did something about it.”

In addition to the on-site training, Smith brought his personal experience with him to work that day. His father suffered a stroke a few years ago.

“There was no one there to help my dad,” Smith said. “I wouldn’t want that to happen to anyone else. I just wanted to help.”

Helping is something the former volunteer firefighter turned security officer enjoys. Between his regular duties, he volunteers to assemble IV kits for nurses, to help with paperwork or with other tasks. His actions have helped endear him with colleagues and ingratiate him into the Grandview team.

“He’s very proactive and often asks if there’s anything we need him to do,” Hollister said. “He’s not waiting to be asked. He’s a true asset.”