Warning: This article contains spoilers for season 1 of The Pitt.
Throughout The Pitt, Myrna emerges as a notable recurrent patient, making nearly every episode memorable. However, the reasons for her hospitalization, including the details surrounding her being handcuffed, are not disclosed until much later in the season. One of the standout features of The Pitt is its commitment to realism, a characteristic that has garnered appreciation from medical professionals for its authentic portrayal of emergency room life. This realism is particularly evident when depicting the complexities of saving lives in high-pressure situations.
Emergency rooms often encounter “recurrent patients” — individuals who return to receive ongoing treatment or whose medical conditions necessitate frequent visits. This recurring theme allows characters like Dr. Robby and his colleagues to form deep connections with these patients. Myrna, in particular, stands out as one such patient who often requires close observation, and the mystery of her handcuffs adds an intriguing layer to her character.
Myrna’s Admission: A Case of Seizures
Hints of Myrna’s Condition: Episode 15
Image via Max
The compelling nature of The Pitt is accompanied by certain narrative nuances, notably its patient approach to story revelation. Viewers only discover the reasons for Myrna’s presence in the hospital during the climactic finale of season 1, especially amidst the chaos that follows the unfortunate PittFest shooting incident, which puts her at heightened risk for seizures.
Myrna, portrayed by Jeanette O’Connor, remains shrouded in a bit of mystery. While the specifics of her medical condition are not overtly stated, it’s clear she requires constant supervision due to the potential for seizures. The medical team’s familiarity with her condition suggests a depth of backstory that the series chooses not to divulge.
Exploring Myrna’s Handcuffs: Possible Explanations
Myrna’s Needs for Supervision
While The Pitt leaves the reason for Myrna’s handcuffs somewhat ambiguous, a few theories have emerged. One possibility is that she may have a criminal history that necessitates these precautions while receiving care. Alternatively, it could be that her medical condition renders her a danger to herself or others, warranting a higher level of supervision.
What is certain is Myrna’s established rapport with the hospital staff, including her familiarity with Dr. Abby, who works the night shift. Given the show’s preference for a “show, don’t tell” storytelling approach, the full details of Myrna’s backstory may remain elusive, particularly as the upcoming season two is said to take place nearly ten months after the current events of season one.