As her colleague, I see how sensitive Marissa is to the needs of all the nurses she works with on our unit. She is a great resource to our newly hired nurses as well as those who have worked here since we opened. She has exceptional skills and has demonstrated this by earning her CCRN (professional certification for ICU nurses) as well as a Level III in the Clinical Ladder program.

For 2 days, she was the primary nurse for an 18 year old patient admitted with chest pain. The care she provided allowed this patient to be extubated and discharged within the 2 day time frame ~ this is quite an accomplishment! The family members were deeply moved and appreciative of her skills and compassion.

Marissa shares her knowledge with all of her co-workers, never giving up on improving their skills. Recently, a nurse that she precepted had this to say about her: “Marissa is always kind, patient and understanding, no matter the challenge or situation”.

Marissa is compassionate to all family members by giving her smile or sharing a laugh. She practices Sacred Encounters by valuing each patient as an individual. I see this demonstrated when she visits patients after she has been off for a few days to make sure their needs are being met. When someone is being discharged she is out there waving good-bye and giving them her cheery smile.

I am proud to have her as my colleague and to nominate her for this award.