When Amanda McMahon came to the emergency room (ER) at Jamestown Regional Medical Center (JRMC) on Easter Sunday, she was frightened and in need of answers. With the help of a compassionate and coordinated team, she experienced care that surpassed her expectations — even in one of her scariest moments.
While visiting family for the holiday in Carrington, McMahon noticed that an ongoing issue of excessive bleeding was not improving and made the choice to be seen at the JRMC. Despite living about two and half hours away from Jamestown in Raleigh, ND, she knew that she would be receiving care that she could trust.
“I had been seen at the JRMC ER before; the decision was mostly due to proximity, but I also chose JRMC because of that fact that I had not had a bad experience there,” said McMahon.
Upon arrival, McMahon was quickly roomed and the team began her examination. The acting board-certified emergency physician Dr. Chuck Allen ordered labs and the results were conclusive: her platelets and hemoglobin were dangerously low and she required a transfusion. Dr. Allen brought in the on-call hospitalist, Dr. Mandy Sorlie, and the two developed a plan for treatment.
Because of the urgency of McMahon’s condition, she was admitted overnight for a transfusion and continued monitoring. Meanwhile, highway patrol was transporting platelets needed for her transfusion to the medical center. Despite her anxiety in the situation, Amanda’s care team brought her comfort and clarity.
“The team took time to explain every step of the process clearly so that I knew what to expect,” McMahon said. “I was nervous about staying the night alone, but the nurses kept checking on me through the night and never once made me feel like a burden. I have felt that way in other hospitals, but not here.”
Unfortunately, McMahon’s labs following the transfusion still caused concern. In need of hematology to ensure positive progress, her care team made the decision to transfer her to Fargo. McMahon needed to be transferred as a direct admit, so they arranged for an ambulance to bring her.
During the transfer, the team continued to be a source of comfort. Dr. Sorlie, Dr. Allen and part of the nursing team met her in the ambulance bay hallway to say goodbye and reassure her.
“That moment really stuck with me,” McMahon recalls. “The team going out of their way to send me off together — that said so much about the kind of care they provide.”
Now that some time has passed, McMahon is feeling healthy and back in action. Looking back, the care that she received at JRMC has left a lasting impact. She encourages others who may be anxious about receiving care.
“They provided excellent care to someone who was extremely anxious and scared,” said McMahon. “If you’re in an emergency situation, you’re going to get good care at JRMC.”