When a young patient with a traumatic spinal cord injury required a diaphragmatic pacer, a device that helps patients move toward ventilator independence, the teams at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) and Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital (MWPH) came together to make a seamless and safe transition possible.

Although MWPH had never cared for a patient with a diaphragmatic pacer before, they agreed to accept the patient for acute rehabilitation. To support this first-of-its-kind transition, Zachary Bensley, MSN, BS, RN, PCCN, Assistant Nurse Manager of Neurotrauma at Shock Trauma, led an extensive education initiative. Over 100 team members across UMMC and MWPH were trained on device management, safety protocols, and care considerations.

Zach’s leadership and commitment to High Reliability ensured that this complex patient could continue their recovery while helping MWPH confidently expand their rehabilitation capabilities. His efforts strengthened collaboration across our System and laid the groundwork for a new, sustainable care pathway for future pediatric spinal cord patients.