Uvalde Memorial Emergency Department Led by Julia Rodriguez, APRN-CNP

Crisis Response Team Award

A shooting tragedy at a nearby elementary school created an unfathomable strain on all community systems. The rural Uvalde Memorial Emergency Department led by Julia Rodriguez, APRN-CNP, quickly prepared for a mass casualty, combining prior education, experience and training with in-the-moment innovations. Being 90 minutes from a trauma center, the ED team utilized every possible agency, resource and staff member available to treat patients, improve outcomes and provide emotional support. During the incident, team members were acutely aware when a co-worker needed a hug or temporary relief to cope with the horrors they witnessed. They promoted self- and group care through team nursing, relying on each other for guidance and assistance. Each individual made a difference on that day. Their continued commitment to be the best for their community gives this resilient team purpose.