Caring in Crisis: How BMC’s Emergency Department Made a Difference for Our Patients
At Burnett Medical Center, our Emergency Department is committed to providing high-quality care during some of life’s most critical moments. We understand that when emergencies happen, every second counts and compassionate care can make all the difference. This blog highlights the experiences of two of our patients, Trenton Tuchtenhagen and Dr. Blaise Vitale, whose stories showcase the exceptional care and compassion provided by our team when it mattered most.
Trenton's Story: A Brain Bleed and a Life Saved
On August 13th, 2023, Trenton Tuchtenhagen was celebrating the day after his 43rd birthday when he suddenly developed a severe headache and lost consciousness while at his camper. He was rushed to BMC’s Emergency Department, where a CT scan revealed a brain bleed. Although the cause was unknown at the time due to a lack of head trauma, it was later determined that Trenton had an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a condition he was likely born with.
His situation was grave. Trenton was intubated and unresponsive, requiring immediate transfer to a higher-level facility. Dr. Geoff Gorres and Nurse Practitioner Linae Hicks in BMC's Emergency Department acted swiftly, arranging for his immediate transfer to Regions Hospital by ambulance.
Though Trenton doesn't recall much from this experience, his family vividly remembers the empathy and professionalism shown by the BMC team. Dr. Gorres and Linae were not only attentive to Trenton’s urgent medical needs but also took the time to explain his condition to his family, providing printed images of the CT scan to help them understand. Their quick actions in administering critical medication contributed to Trenton’s positive outcome.
Trenton’s family expressed immense gratitude for the care they received. “My family and I are very grateful for all of the care I received at Burnett Medical Center… that got me to where I am today,” Trenton shared.
Trenton, we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to care for you in our Emergency Department. Supporting our patients during their most challenging moments is at the heart of what we do, and we are honored to have been there for you when you needed us most.
Dr. Blaise Vitale's Story: From Physician to Patient
Dr. Blaise Vitale, a long-standing Family Practice Physician at BMC, found himself in an unexpected role—patient—after a severe fall in November 2023. While walking his dogs, Dr. Vitale slipped on ice and hit his head, initially experiencing only headaches. Over the next few months, he continued his usual activities, unaware of the seriousness of his condition. However, by late January 2024, he began to experience significant symptoms, including weakness on his left side, difficulty typing, and unsteady walking. On January 29, his condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating urgent medical attention.
Upon arriving at BMC's Emergency Department, a CT scan quickly identified a large subdural hematoma, also known as a brain bleed, causing a significant brain shift. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, BMC’s team promptly arranged for his transfer to Abbott Northwestern Hospital, where he underwent successful surgery to remove the hematoma. Dr. Vitale made a swift recovery, regaining most of his motor functions shortly after surgery, and was able to resume his duties at BMC by mid-March 2024.
Reflecting on his experience, Dr. Vitale expressed deep gratitude for the care he received. "In my time of need, I knew I wouldn't go anywhere else. I was impressed at how fast we got our CT scan results at BMC, and the care in BMC’s Emergency Department was great—everybody was wonderful. Even though we (BMC) can't do everything here, we can certainly do the assessment, get the treatment process started, and get people transferred quickly." His experience not only highlights the quality of care patients receive at BMC but also the efficiency and effectiveness of our emergency services.
The stories of Trenton and Dr. Vitale are powerful reminders of the crucial role BMC's Emergency Department plays in our community. Whether it's a minor injury from an accident, or a sudden, life-threatening event, our dedicated team is here to provide prompt, compassionate care. We are proud to serve our patients with the highest standards of medical excellence, ensuring that every individual receives the best possible care during their most vulnerable moments.
At Burnett Medical Center, your well-being is our top priority, and we are committed to being there for you and your family whenever you need us.