Published: June 14, 2024
LANSING, Mich. – A University of Michigan Health-Sparrow mammography technologist is being recognized with the health system’s Speak Up Award for recently taking quick action to help a patient when a routine exam turned into a possible emergency scenario.
During a mammogram, technologist Olivia Vickers noticed the patient slurring her speech, that the right side of her face was drooping and she was struggling to lift her right arm. Recognizing these as possible stroke symptoms, Vickers immediately notified her colleagues and called 911.
The patient ended up being OK, but Vicker's quick thinking and adherence to stroke protocols ensured the patient received immediate medical attention, highlighting the importance of team members always being vigilant.
“It's important to speak up when something doesn't set well or doesn't feel right. We as people need to listen to that internal voice inside our heads telling us to intervene,” Vickers said. “I hope we all never forget to listen to our inner voice. It's there for a reason.”
UM Health-Sparrow Speak Up Award winner Olivia Vickers (center) accepts congratulations from John Pirich, chair U-M Health Corporation Board of Directors, and Nancy McKeague, chair of the UM Health-Sparrow Board of Directors.
The Speak Up Award is given quarterly to a UM Health-Sparrow team member or team for speaking up on behalf of patient and team member safety. The health and safety of our patients, team members, and visitors is always our top priority.
To learn more about leading-edge medicine and the highly skilled team at UM Health-Sparrow, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org.
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University of Michigan Health-Sparrow is Mid-Michigan’s premier health care organization and includes hospitals in Lansing, Carson City, Charlotte, Ionia and St. Johns, as well as UM Health-Sparrow Specialty Hospital, Care Network, the Michigan Athletic Club, and AL!VE. UM Health-Sparrow is part of University of Michigan Health. Through the dedication of our 10,000 team members, UM Health-Sparrow pursues a vision to be nationally recognized as a leader in quality and patient experience. For more information, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org.