Dave DeMatteo, BSN, RN is a beloved Assistant Clinical Director in RWJBarnabas Health - Monmouth Medical Center's Emergency Department. During the first wave of COVID-19, Dave parked his RV outside of the Emergency Department and stayed there for weeks just to be there to help his staff.

Dave always has the nurses’ backs, despite how tired and overworked he may be. He continuously puts his own needs aside to help the staff in any way that he can. Dave is everyone’s cheerleader; he has a way of making everyone feel smart, cared about, and important. He pushes the team to all be better. Dave does an unbelievable job of advocating for his nurses, while maintaining his responsibilities as an essential member of the nursing leadership team.

In one instance, a nurse was assaulted by a patient during a difficult night shift. The nurse continued to work, but Dave would not leave the nurse’s side until she left the unit to take a walk with him for support. He had the wherewithal to relay to the nurse that “when your mind isn’t there, that’s when you make mistakes.” He then arranged staffing so that the nurse could clock-out of her shift early to focus on self-care. This incredibly selfless act—one of too many to name—has solidified him into the hearts of every staff member. Dave is truly the epitome of a Nurse Leader, and Monmouth Medical Center is incredibly honored to have presented him with such a special award.