March 2026 Honoree
Nancy Preston-Ast, RN
I am honored to commend Nancy Preston-Ast for the exceptional care, compassion, and dedication she consistently demonstrates in her role.
Nancy exemplifies what it truly means to be a nurse. She approaches every patient interaction with genuine empathy, kindness, and respect, ensuring that each individual feels heard, valued, and cared for. Her ability to connect with patients on a personal level creates a sense of comfort and trust, even during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
Her compassion extends beyond clinical care. She brings warmth, reassurance, and a calming presence that makes a lasting impact on patients, families, and colleagues alike. It is clear nursing is not just her profession, but her calling.
Recently, Nancy had a patient who came in for a simple procedure. The procedure was deemed not needed, and she was told she could discharge the patient. Nancy, being the diligent nurse that she is, was very concerned about her patient and did not feel comfortable sending her home. After speaking with the patient and her spouse, they agreed to let Nancy take them to the ER to be checked out. Her above-and-beyond care made a profound difference for this patient, who was very ill and ultimately required admission.
Three days after Nancy had taken this patient to the ER, they were now in the ICU. Unfortunately, the patient coded that day. Nancy was working her shift in preop next to ICU. When she became aware of the code, she went to the ICU to be able to console the patient's spouse, with whom she had built a rapport. The ICU staff was able to bring the patient back, but the ultimate outlook was not good. As you can imagine, the spouse was very distraught. Nancy stood by his side and was explaining what was going on and just allowing the spouse to express his fears and emotions. Her willingness and concern to be with the spouse in that moment speak to every reason I am writing this nomination. Nancy truly embodies the values and spirit this recognition represents. I am grateful for the care she provides and the positive difference she makes every day.
Nancy exemplifies what it truly means to be a nurse. She approaches every patient interaction with genuine empathy, kindness, and respect, ensuring that each individual feels heard, valued, and cared for. Her ability to connect with patients on a personal level creates a sense of comfort and trust, even during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
Her compassion extends beyond clinical care. She brings warmth, reassurance, and a calming presence that makes a lasting impact on patients, families, and colleagues alike. It is clear nursing is not just her profession, but her calling.
Recently, Nancy had a patient who came in for a simple procedure. The procedure was deemed not needed, and she was told she could discharge the patient. Nancy, being the diligent nurse that she is, was very concerned about her patient and did not feel comfortable sending her home. After speaking with the patient and her spouse, they agreed to let Nancy take them to the ER to be checked out. Her above-and-beyond care made a profound difference for this patient, who was very ill and ultimately required admission.
Three days after Nancy had taken this patient to the ER, they were now in the ICU. Unfortunately, the patient coded that day. Nancy was working her shift in preop next to ICU. When she became aware of the code, she went to the ICU to be able to console the patient's spouse, with whom she had built a rapport. The ICU staff was able to bring the patient back, but the ultimate outlook was not good. As you can imagine, the spouse was very distraught. Nancy stood by his side and was explaining what was going on and just allowing the spouse to express his fears and emotions. Her willingness and concern to be with the spouse in that moment speak to every reason I am writing this nomination. Nancy truly embodies the values and spirit this recognition represents. I am grateful for the care she provides and the positive difference she makes every day.
Thank you, Nancy, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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