Jaan Nguyen, RN

I was recently admitted from the ED to the COVID unit in CVU. My admitting nurse and subsequently my primary nurse 7a-7p and for my 3-day stay was, Jaan. From the moment I arrived on the unit terrified, to my discharge, he was a calming, reassuring presence and I cannot express adequately what that meant to me and how much it influenced my healing. Not only did Jaan have me and several other patients in his care, but he was also the charge nurse for this busy unit. I never once felt neglected or rushed when in need or when interacting with him. Every question, every concern, the care I was to receive – the “team” plan (hospitalist, ID, etc.) – was clearly explained and any questions, changes, or requests were quickly handled by Jaan. While I was impressed by his nursing skills and professionalism/confidence/competence – it was his attitude and compassion that put me at ease and allowed me to feel cared for in a way that eased my fears and anxiety. I am a retired RN (primarily ECU) and know how hard this job is (I can’t imagine in this current pandemic environment) and value and admire when I see the rare combination of great clinical skills/professionalism and empathy, compassion, and human touch that you simply cannot teach or learn – it comes from a much deeper place and makes the difference in the lives of patients.