Chippewa Valley Times

A nursing student from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Beth Wittmann, demonstrated quick thinking and skill when she acted to save a life during her clinical rotation on April 1. Wittmann was completing her clinical hours at the Marshfield site when she heard a cry for help. "I checked for a pulse and signs of breathing but found neither," she explained. "Their color was changing, and it was clear this was a true emergency. I didn’t hesitate. I started CPR and yelled for someone to call the code team."

Wittmann, who had never performed CPR in a real-life emergency before that day, was able to act decisively due to her training in the UW-Eau Claire nursing program. "My heart was racing, but I knew I had to act fast," she remarked. "There was no time to think twice. I focused on staying calm and doing everything I’d been taught."

She continued chest compressions until additional help arrived, transitioning to two-person CPR and using a defibrillator before transferring the patient to the emergency department.

The experience served as a significant moment for Wittmann, who noted, "I’ve struggled with confidence at times. This moment reminded me that I am more capable than I give myself credit for. I stayed calm under pressure, assessed the situation and took action—that’s what being a nurse is about."

Wittmann's prompt actions were acknowledged during the medical center's leadership huddle the following morning. She expressed how the incident reinforced her career choice and reignited her interest in emergency and critical care. "It taught me how important it is to trust your training, to stay aware of your surroundings and to believe in yourself," she shared. "Even grabbing coffee can turn into an emergency—and thanks to my education, I was ready."

Wittmann hopes her story will inspire fellow nursing students to be confident. "You may not feel ready," she stated, "But when the moment comes, you’ll be surprised at what you’re capable of."