I have had the pleasure of working with Ranya Tawfik, RN of Kahn 5 for several years and have witnessed her compassionfor her patients. Sheis a true advocate for her patients and as charge nurse, she also advocates for other patients on the floor when necessary. She never hesitates to assist a patientor help a co-worker. Ranya plans and prioritizes patient care efficiently and places her patient's needs first. The following is one of many examples:

A patient presented with needing a diagnosis to rule out stroke and symptoms ofleft-sidedflaccidity.The patient had an extensive psych history and was being followed closely. The neurology clinical nurse specialistwas alsofollowing the patient. I observed Ranya caringfor him for two nights and saw the concern she had for this patient after spending an extensive amount of time with him at the bedside. The first nightshe cared for the patient,her observations and every four-hour neurology checks displayed decreased sensation along the left upper and lower extremities and complete flaccidity of his left side. However, othernurses and staff reported seeing the patientmovehis left side. On the last nightRanya cared for the patient, she encouraged him toreturn to the bed without the Hoyer lift because she believed he had the strength to use his left side.Although he was hesitant, heagreed. As we slowly got him up out of the chair, it was apparent the patient could move hisleft side, however, the patient still did not believe that he could.Ranya continued to encourage the patient to move his left hand and he did. She then took an extensive amount of time to use therapeutic communication andremind him that although he had suffered a great loss in his life after losing his mother, he also had a great support system in his personal life. As the shift went on, Ranya completed her four-hour neurology checks and with each check, the patient's strength and symptoms became better and he was eager to show his nurse, who truly cared about his progress and wellbeing. We were even told by his visitor that the patient started exercising in bed. Additionally, he was proud to show Ranyahis strength and determinationevery time she went into the room.Originally, the patient's plan was to go to rehab, but with Ranya's exceptional, qualitycare and above and beyond efforts, the patientwas discharged home the following day.
Ranya truly touches people's lives by developing a trusting relationship with her patients and their families.