This nurse is being recognized for life-saving work of a different kind, something firefighters train their adult lives for.
Steven Cortes, a certified registered nurse anesthetist at Northwell’s Mather Hospital in Port Jefferson was heading home to his wife after a 10-hour shift when he came upon a house fire in his neighborhood.
First to notice the fire, he promptly called 911. Then he sprung into action, assisting with the rescue of a 62-year-old disabled man who had been trapped in the blaze.
According to Northwell officials, the on-scene paramedics tried unsuccessfully to place a breathing tube in the man, but Cortes rushed in and successfully intubated him on the first attempt.
After securing the patient’s airway, he remained at his side in the ambulance and aided in the resuscitation efforts on the way to the closest hospital.
“Steve spent the entire evening and night displaying an extraordinary level of compassion and selflessness,” said Michael Lampasona, Mather Hospital’s nurse anesthesia manager. “He truly exemplifies the mission, vision, and values of Northwell Anesthesia.”
“Steven’s quick thinking, training and experience helped save a life that night,” said Kevin McGeachy, president of Mather Hospital. “I congratulate him for showing the highest level of dedication and professionalism, the kind of extraordinary patient care for which Mather is known.”
Top: (L-R) Dr. Joseph Marino, Northwell SVP Anesthesia Service Line, Dr. David Park, Anesthesia Chair at Mather, Steven Cortes, Michael Lampasona, Nurse Anesthesia Manager at Mather, Kevin McGeachy, President, Mather Hospital. (Credit: Northwell)
