May 2026 Honoree

Cara Barnett, RN

  • UnityPoint Health Des Moines
  • Des Moines
    ,
    IA
    ,
    United States
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I recently had my fifth surgery. I pride myself on being self-sufficient and having a high pain tolerance. However, the side effects from the antibiotics were numerous, and the pain was worse than anything I had ever experienced. The one bright spot was the compassionate care I received from my nurse. Cara’s kindness, patience, and willingness to listen made a difference in my overall experience. On my next-to-last day in the hospital, I was frustrated that my pain had gotten worse throughout the week. Cara reviewed my symptoms with me, and we collaborated on a little research. We discovered I had gained 10 pounds since being admitted, despite having little appetite. She called the pharmacist and doctor to find a solution that led to a 75% reduction in my pain level within a couple of hours. I’ll forever be grateful to Cara for the excellent care she provided. She’s extraordinary!

Thank you, Cara, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.

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