A patient nominated Jon Zafra by writing: "I had heart surgery and I went to the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit where Jon was one of my nurses. The care he provided was outstanding, but just as important, he delivered that care in a compassionate and empathetic way. He was attentive to my needs, and quick to respond. His soft-spoken manner was soothing, especially during the first two nights. He relieved my stress by gentle massages, washing my hair, and explaining everything he was going to do. While I was in bed I remember thinking "This is what an angel is like."

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Jon is indeed an angel and I'm glad and lucky to have had him as one of my nurses. Jon's caring and compassionate approach to patient care exemplifies the "art" of nursing and is one of the foundations of the nursing profession. It is not enough that a nurse knows the scientific and medical background of a patient's disease and care plan. Delivering that care in a compassionate way is also important. Jon is really a great role model for the nursing profession and promotes the profession by his actions and compassion.