The CATCH: In Support of Emotional Wellness

Robin Fry, RN, BSN, MSN-Ed, Breast Nurse Navigator With Lutheran Hospital

The outcome of the situation could have been much different if Robin had not intervened. [This] shows what good rapport and comfort Robin brings to all her patients.

—Leslie Edgar, MSN, RN, NP-C
Director of Oncology, Lutheran Hospital of Indiana

A CATCH is a navigation success story where a navigation tactic improved a patient’s situation. The CATCH Initiative, short for Catching & Addressing Threats to Care & Health, tracks and acknowledges positive outcomes of navigation tactics.

THE CATCH OF THE MONTH

Background: Navigator intervened to address patient’s suicidal ideations and mental health support needs.

The Incident: The navigator reached out for a routine survivorship follow-up with the patient. The patient informed the navigator that she had a near suicide attempt the night before and stated she felt out of control. She had recently started a new medication and had considered taking as many of the pills as she could swallow.

The CATCH (Intervention): Utilizing her assessment skills, including emotionally sensitive language, the navigator spent time listening to the patient’s concerns, which included marriage issues since her reconstructive surgery and trouble healing after her double mastectomy. The navigator inquired about upcoming physician visits and informed the patient that she would need to update the physician due to her current state of mind. The patient stated she would like to contact them directly, and the navigator encouraged her to do so immediately.

Outcome: The navigator followed up with the patient to confirm that she spoke with her physician. The patient was seen by the nurse practitioner at the medical oncology office after receiving an emergency appointment. Her medications had been changed, and she was staying with a friend for the day. The navigator continues to follow up with the patient, who states she is doing much better mentally and is thankful for the navigator’s intervention and active listening.

The Importance of the CATCH

This navigator remained calm in her assessment and provided needed mental health support when the patient was at her most vulnerable state. Navigators are equipped with multiple skill sets that transcend clinical and psychosocial needs for their patients. Navigation can, through a holistic approach to care, impact a patient’s emotional well-being, thus improving their quality of life.

Reference

• Bellomo C, Christensen D, Strusowski T. Seasoned navigator: a case study on patient advocacy/patient empowerment. Journal of Oncology Navigation & Survivorship. 2016;7(8):31-32.

Tell us about the navigation tactics that improve the lives of your patients!