Carmen's patient was going to be in the hospital for a few days and had a dog at home he was worried about. The patient had not been able to get in contact with his neighbors and was concerned that it was too hot for the dog and didn't know if she would have enough food and water. The patient was scheduled to have surgery on Monday and would have to stay in the hospital throughout the weekend. Carmen was very concerned for her patient and his pet. The patient was anxious and upset, and couldn't sleep.

Carmen offered to go to his house when she got off work to check on his dog and give the patient peace of mind. Carmen then offered to take his dog to her house if he was going to be in the hospital for a period of time so she could watch the dog. The patient was so grateful for the offer. Carmen went to the patient's home and through the side gate to check on his dog. The dog was so happy to see her. She took pictures of the dog and forwarded them to the day shift nurse so that she could show the patient that Queenie was okay. Carmen then went to each of the patient's neighbors homes explaining the situation and getting the neighbors to agree to check on the dog and make sure she was okay until the patient came home.

Carmen has an outstanding sense of empathy for her patients. Empathy is defined as "the ability to understand and share the feelings of another."