She didn’t hesitate to help

The first step is often the most difficult. But Romell Stewart entered the room with compassion in her heart and courage on her sleeve.

Stewart is a neurodiagnostic tech at Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center in Milwaukee. For nearly two years, her responsibility is to help monitor a patient’s brain function. She and her team use 19 different methods and tools to track the body’s neurological system.

With COVID-19, the virus causes respiratory issues and fever, both of which can affect how the brain functions. By tracking a patient’s brain activity, caregivers can see brain waves, watch for signs of seizure and help doctors provide better treatment.

As the pandemic swept in and more patients reported symptoms, the inevitable became reality. Stewart was the first person on her team to come in direct contact with a COVID-19 positive patient.

But for the EEG machine to pick up brain signals, 27 individual wires need to be strategically placed in specific spots on the patient’s head. Without hesitation, Stewart rose to the challenge.

“Initially, I was a little nervous only because of the uncertainty,” said Stewart. “But we put ourselves at risk every day with the various diagnoses patients have, so I cared for this patient as I would have anyone else.”

Draped in protective equipment, Stewart ensured that the wires were safely secured not only for accurate results but also to limit contact with the patient. As part of the treatment team, her efforts helped the patient return to normal health before being discharged.

“Romell took the lead and went in with no questions or second thoughts. She showcases great courage and leadership to our team,” says team manager Tabitha Althoff.

Described by her colleagues as “the bedrock of the department,” Stewart says that she is proud of the lifesaving work they bravely continue to do in the face of the pandemic.

“I feel really good knowing I could contribute in some way to the care of the COVID-19 patients,” said Stewart. “We are all here to care for patients no matter what.”