Integrity, empathy, compassion, strong communication skills and being a team player are all good attributes of a good nurse. Add to this, being a critical thinker, a problem solver, having time management/delegation skills and being adaptable make a great nurse.

Abby Salvador came to the United States through DaVita’s Global Program in August of 2022.  Within the first three months of being in the States, she trained as a dialysis nurse with DaVita, found an apartment, acquired her driver’s permit/license, and purchased a car so she had transportation to all of the facilities that she would be covering.

From day one, I observed Abby’s wonderful bedside manner with her patients.  She always puts their needs and safety first, making sure they are comfortable and in a good place.  I can tell by their demeanor that they absolutely adore her.  Abby will sit at the bedside with each patient, ensuring that she is following proper protocol and troubleshooting when necessary, all while carrying on a conversation with them to help pass the time.

Over the past six months Abby’s team has been short-staffed on a weekly basis.  I cannot remember a time when she did not offer to pick up an additional shift or come in on her day off all with a smile on her face and while planning a wedding in a few months.

She has grown so much as a nurse over the past 18 months.  Her time management and delegation skills prove that she will one day be in a leadership role, hopefully within DaVita.  

I have worked with many excellent nurses over the years, but if asked if there is one that shines above the rest, my answer will always be the same.  I, as well as Abby’s teammates and our hospital partners, am truly blessed that Abby decided to join our team.  She is an asset to DaVita and all those who happen to cross her path.