Recognizing stroke signs when every minute matters
A routine appointment at UCHealth Cherry Creek Medical Center took an unexpected turn when acute care nurse Whitney Haak and her colleagues recognized signs of a possible stroke the moment a patient entered the clinic’s imaging department.
An imaging technologist working alongside Haak was the first to notice the patient’s unusual gait. They informed Haak, who then identified additional indicators that warranted closer evaluation.
Drawing on her critical care background, Haak immediately began a stroke assessment.
“I’ve worked in critical care spaces, so I knew time is brain,” she said. “We took the patient to a room, and I explained that I was going to ask them some questions that might seem silly but are important for their safety.”
After completing the assessment, Haak stepped out of the room and called 911. While she communicated her concerns, her supervisor and imaging colleagues remained with the patient.
Emergency medical services (EMS) arrived within minutes. After reviewing Haak’s findings and conducting their own assessment, the EMS team agreed the patient was likely experiencing a stroke and quickly transported them to a nearby hospital for further care.
Later, the team received welcome news. The patient followed up to share that the diagnosis had indeed been a stroke and that they were recovering well at home.
“We’re fortunate in this role to hear back from patients occasionally,” Haak said. “I’m thankful we learned they were doing well and that their recovery was going smoothly.”
While Haak’s quick thinking played a critical role, she emphasized that the response was a team effort.
“Overall, there was great awareness and communication throughout our imaging team,” she said. “Everyone jumped in to support however they could and understood their role.”
The experience also reinforced lessons Haak has explored through her current UEXCEL project, which focuses on emergency response in clinical settings.
“I’ve learned that it takes all of us,” she said. “From clinical staff to security and front desk receptionists, we must ensure that we’re prepared to handle any emergent situation that may occur in our clinic.”
In a recent Celebrating You nomination, colleagues recognized Haak for her vigilance and commitment to patient safety.
“Whitney made a difference in that patient’s life,” the nomination read. “This event is an example of her care and concern for all patients. We in radiology love Whitney and all the support she gives us every day.”
For Haak, hearing that the patient was recovering well reinforced a simple truth: Quick action and teamwork can make a lasting difference when every minute matters.