Melissa is one of the most professional nurses I have ever met. She is extremely intelligent and knowledgeable in her field. She is able to explain medical terms and data in an understandable manner giving a patient confidence in her care. Melissa performed her nursing tasks with care and efficiency in a timely fashion. While she cared for me, I knew that she would always return to my room with my requests in a timely fashion. I never felt ignored or forgotten despite her busy schedule. After my mentioning concern that my breathing might suffer while in the hospital, she brought me a piece of equipment to help me expand my lungs. She had a solution for each of my concerns and clearly was able to execute and follow through with a plan. Melissa’s technical skills are as proficient as her knowledge. She inserted my IV and started it with ease and without pain to me. Her confidence and skill are assets bringing ease to her patients. My hospital stay was enriched by Melissa’s excellent nursing care and I would definitely say she is an Extraordinary Nurse. From the moment I rolled onto the floor (at change of shift, no less), Melissa advocated for me before she even knew me. Pain management was a huge issue for me. Not only did she help me secure a pain management plan, but she listened to me with great compassion. The provider team was not always consistent with their own plan, and she helped to facilitate follow-through to ensure my discharge had the best possible chance of success. Melissa went above and beyond and spent time talking things through without making me feel like a burden or that I was taking away from her other patients. She seemed to know what I needed before I did. Her caring, compassion and expert advocacy skills made me feel safe during a scary time. I feel she should be recognized for these qualities.