Desiree Pastidio, BSN, RN

I would like to recognize Desiree as an excellent team leader. She consistently makes a tremendous difference by fostering a compassionate, empathetic environment, implementing evidence-based practice, and demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities.

Recently, I witnessed an incident that perfectly reflected her effectiveness as a team leader. During shift change, she received a critical laboratory report for a patient whose hemoglobin level was dangerously low—below five. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, she immediately used effective time management and clinical judgment to ensure the patient received safe, timely care.

The patient's primary RN was a newly graduated nurse, and the patient was confused, highly agitated, and at significant risk for falls. Rather than allowing the new nurse to become overwhelmed, she quickly rearranged the day shift assignments to reduce the primary nurse's workload so full attention could be given to the patient and the blood transfusion.

As team leader, Desiree promptly escalated the situation to the physicians and obtained a STAT blood transfusion order. She then personally went to the patient's room, inserted a new large-gauge IV, prepared everything needed for the transfusion, and worked alongside the primary RN to safely administer the blood.

Once the patient's hemoglobin reached a stable level, she coordinated the discharge process and ensured the patient was safely discharged to hospice. Throughout the entire event, she promoted patient safety, supported the new nurse, reduced the workload of the team, and ensured the unit continued to function efficiently.

This is just one example of the many ways she demonstrates outstanding leadership. She is also exceptionally computer-savvy and continually uses her creativity and technical skills to improve safety, organization, cleanliness, and workflow throughout our unit. She consistently looks for innovative ways to improve efficiency and enhance the overall functioning of the department.

I have also witnessed her stepping up repeatedly during staffing shortages. At shift change, when rapid response situations occur, or the unit becomes especially challenging, she never hesitates to stay and support the night nurses until the day shift is fully able to manage the situation. Her presence is consistently felt both at the nurses' station and at the bedside, and her willingness to help wherever she is needed is truly admirable.

She exemplifies kindness, sound decision-making, and outstanding mentorship. She always ensures that organizational policies and procedures are followed while extending a helping hand to coworkers and supporting the entire healthcare team.

From the depths of my heart, I can say she is a tremendous asset to both our unit and our organization. She consistently contributes innovative ideas, practical techniques, and effective strategies that reduce workload while improving teamwork and patient care.

She works tirelessly and makes the most of every opportunity to lead her team effectively, promote unit productivity, ensure safe patient management, foster collaboration, and maintain the highest standards of quality. She possesses excellent communication skills, consistently demonstrates professionalism, and creates an environment where teamwork can thrive.

In every aspect of her role, she goes above and beyond as a team leader. She successfully guides her team, mentors new nurses, and helps shape the next generation of nursing professionals.

Desiree exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional nurse leader, including compassion, empathy, clinical expertise, decisiveness, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to patient safety and teamwork.