Gerard Arroyo was nominated for treating his patient with dignity and allowing her to be involved in her medical treatment.
The patient spent a couple of nights on Gerard's floor and had to receive medicine via an IV. The medication was not one the patient regularly took and had even caused a reaction during a previous dose.
The patient informed Gerard about the past reaction and told him that the IV needed to be run very slowly to keep her from reacting a second time.
"Gerard did not seem put off by this request," the patient wrote in a nomination letter. "In fact, he told me that I knew what was best for me since I was familiar with the medication already and had reacted to it."
By allowing the patient to play a role in her own treatment, Gerard helped her feel like her experience mattered. After administering the medication, Gerard made sure to check in on her frequently and answer any calls she made.
"When the doctor said I was able to eat, Gerard ran out and tried to get me a plain yogurt at 8:00 p.m.!" the patient wrote. "I was truly lucky to have him as my nurse. It was a pleasure getting to know this admirable young man."