Angelene Waschka-Zeppuhar, RN works in the Endoscopy Department and was recently recognized by a family member who cares for her mentally challenged brother-in-law. The patient had dental surgery at Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital and was scheduled to have cardiac bypass surgery the following week. Unfortunately, the patient did not tolerate the dental surgery well. He was unable to tolerate sitting up in order to be dressed and discharged. Angelene, the nurse caring for him, immediately suspected he was having a cardiac event. She reassured the patient and his caregiver and swiftly worked to contact the physician and carry out stat orders. She contacted the nursing supervisor and escorted the patient to the emergency department so that he could be seen and be treated.
The caregiver stated: "Angelene was always so calm and reassuring and kept us informed at every turn. As a retired physician and caregiver, I keep a very critical eye of what care is given to my brother-in-law. Angelene was phenomenal in every way."
Angelene embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award, and provides this level of care to every patient and family she encounters.