April 2026 Honoree
Cinia Pineda, RN
Nurse Cinia always arrives a few minutes early because she likes to take a breath, center herself, and remind her heart why she chose this work. "Every patient deserves to feel seen."
Her patient was a retired teacher recovering from surgery who was known for being withdrawn and refusing help. Cinia approached him with her usual gentle presence. "Good morning, sir. I brought some warm water so we can get you cleaned up a bit. How are you feeling? I know this is a rough time. If you'd rather talk first, I'm here."
She pulled up a chair beside him. That small moment opened a door, allowing the patient to accept the help he needed, and by the end of the day he was smiling.
Later, during interdisciplinary rounds, the team discussed how the patient had been refusing care and was considered challenging. Nurse Cinia advocated for him by explaining, "He was struggling with his independence, and if given choices, at his pace, he would respond better." The team agreed and worked together to create a plan of care.
As the days passed, the patient grew stronger and more confident. Upon discharge, he said, "You didn't just take care of me, you helped me feel like myself again."
Her patient was a retired teacher recovering from surgery who was known for being withdrawn and refusing help. Cinia approached him with her usual gentle presence. "Good morning, sir. I brought some warm water so we can get you cleaned up a bit. How are you feeling? I know this is a rough time. If you'd rather talk first, I'm here."
She pulled up a chair beside him. That small moment opened a door, allowing the patient to accept the help he needed, and by the end of the day he was smiling.
Later, during interdisciplinary rounds, the team discussed how the patient had been refusing care and was considered challenging. Nurse Cinia advocated for him by explaining, "He was struggling with his independence, and if given choices, at his pace, he would respond better." The team agreed and worked together to create a plan of care.
As the days passed, the patient grew stronger and more confident. Upon discharge, he said, "You didn't just take care of me, you helped me feel like myself again."
Thank you, Cinia, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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