As an trauma ICU nurse, Venessa Thompson is used to navigating intense situations. But in the midst of trying to help the critically injured and ill, she’s also developed an inner voice that reminds her to stay on guard for her own well-being, too.
In 2022, when a patient became violent and lashed out at staff in the ICU, Thompson realized as she moved quickly to help just how insufficient the safety regulations in her workplace were, and that she and only a few other healthcare staff were essentially on their own. Though she has witnessed many other instances of aggression over her 10-year career, this one sticks out.
