August 2021 Honoree
Michael Muench, RN
Michael called me at about 0600 in the morning. Knowing it was close to change of shift, I asked if he had time to do a Zoom for the family of a patient who was rapidly declining. I was caring for her husband at another hospital who also had COVID and was not doing well. His heartwarming response brought tears to my eyes! He demonstrated characteristics of a compassionate nurse, and in these chaotic times, that needs to be recognized! Often, there are so many tasks that must be accomplished during a shift, and that last hour is critical to leaving on time. That was not even a thought in Michael’s mind. He had his priorities in line and his patient’s emotional well-being took a front line, as it always should. Michael was amazing in collaborating with the patient’s bedside nurse and myself. I am so glad we were able to offer these two patients, in two different hospitals, with different nurses, the opportunity to say goodbye to each other. In a time of sadness, we brought these two patients one more moment of joy. I was so overwhelmed with emotion, I felt it necessary to let you know of his exemplary holistic nursing capabilities that went above and beyond basic nursing care.
Thank you, Michael, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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