Giann Karlo Vazquez
January 2026
Giann Karlo
Vazquez
,
BSN, RN
Vascular Access
Nicklaus Children's Hospital
Miami
,
FL
United States
While my son was in the ICU, he made the effort to come by our room to check on us—despite this being outside of his assigned responsibilities.
My son experienced a prolonged and complex hospital stay, during which he required multiple IV insertions. Some attempts were unsuccessful, and several IVs were no longer functional. As a result, my son became understandably anxious and fearful with each new attempt. At a critical moment, my son lost his IV access while a blood transfusion was urgently needed. Giann Karlo was called to assist, and with remarkable calmness, confidence, and precision, he successfully established IV access—allowing life-saving treatment to proceed without delay.

Later that same night, my son’s condition deteriorated significantly. His hemoglobin dropped sharply, and he became hemodynamically unstable, requiring additional transfusions and urgent intervention. Once again, Giann Karlo responded immediately and expertly established a large-bore IV under pressure. This IV remained functional through my son’s discharge and was instrumental in avoiding multiple additional needle sticks for lab draws. His technical skill, steady presence, and ability to perform in a high-stress emergency were critical to my son’s stabilization and recovery.

What truly sets Giann Karlo apart, however, is not only his exceptional clinical ability but his compassion. In the days that followed, while my son was in the ICU, he made the effort to come by our room to check on us—despite this being outside of his assigned responsibilities. He took the time to ensure my son was doing well. In the midst of fear and uncertainty, his presence brought reassurance, comfort, and a sense of safety.

***

His willingness to go above and beyond his role, caring for patients not just as tasks but as people, made an unforgettable impact on my family and me.

Giann Karlo Vazquez is an extraordinary nurse and a true asset to his institution. I am deeply grateful for his skills and the concern he has shown during one of the most frightening moments of our lives, and I respectfully submit this nomination in strong support of his recognition as a DAISY Award recipient.