During the pandemic, especially the last six months staffing a full ICU of critical patients could become difficult, as I witnessed firsthand burnout for many of the nurses physically and mentally. After seeing more death than before, these nurses needed a break but knew that their patients needed them more than ever. I would nominate the full ICU staff if I could but I would like to highlight a nurse who not only showed up to work for these patients but showed up more shifts every week for months on end so other nurses could have a night to have some moments of self-care.

This nurse took time in their night to talk with the patients’ families until they felt heard and understood their family members' medical needs. She would take hours to make sure the patient was clean and at ease. She would stand in the airborne room and hold their hand when they were scared and couldn't have family visit. She would make sure the family could talk on the phone with their family even if they could not talk back. She would go above and beyond for the women and braid their hair, so it didn't become knotted when they were stuck to their beds for weeks on end.

When the ICU needed a nurse last minute, she was the first one to call and showed up to work twenty minutes later prepared. She would also take a student on to help educate the next generation of nurses while looking into was she can further her knowledge to benefit her patients. Carrie shows compassion, dedication, skills, and knowledge when it comes to critical care nursing. If anyone I loved came into her care I would be blessed.