Candace Cleavinger, RN

A young child and his family were seen in the ER for suicidal tendencies. The patient was a sweet young boy, no more than 6 years old. He had made a worrying statement involving a knife, and the mother had brought him in to be evaluated. The patient was in the ER for a long time. I witnessed Candace not only provide patient care in multiple ways that exceeded expectations. Candace provided empathy and compassion in communication among the patient, her team, and outside providers, with attention to detail in discussing the patient's condition. I can say with certainty that this family and the young kids' lives were positively affected by her attention to detail, communication, and patience. I am submitting this on their behalf, as they repeatedly stated what an amazing nurse and blessing Candace was. To have a 6yr old with these types of suicidal thoughts was very confusing and heartbreaking for the family. Candace truly embodies Integris' core values. Proud to call her a caregiver and teammate. This is just one of many encounters I have witnessed firsthand in which Candace has been an exceptional nurse.