Tami is a unique individual who has a talent for connecting with others who need comfort and support. She really listens and hears what is said both verbally and non-verbally. She knows the right questions to ask to get to the heart of the matter. She takes time and is quick to help others.

This short story demonstrates these behaviors:

Recently a young visiting nurse was attending a continuing education class at our facility when she brought to the facilitator's attention a medical condition that she had been experiencing. The visiting nurse, stable at the moment, did not want to go to the Emergency Department, since she had an appointment with her cardiologist in just a few hours. The facilitator, worried about the young nurse, and needing validation that the issue wasn't urgent, took her to Cardiac Rehabilitation to be assessed.

Upon hearing the situation, Tami took charge right away and set about calming the young nurse who was short of breath by speaking in a calm voice and making her comfortable while completing an assessment. Tami stayed with her, listened to her fears and monitored her vital signs.

The young nurse's respiratory rate and heart rate slowed to a normal rate and she began to breathe easier in Tami's presence. Tami kept her in a safe place and continued to monitor her status until she could be seen by the cardiologist.

Tami provided compassionate care to a young frightened nurse who was worried and frightened about the possibility of the worst case scenario happening to her. Tami used her assessment skills to monitor the nurse to keep her safe. Even though Tami had other responsibilities to attend to, supported by her colleagues in Cardiac Rehabilitation, she was able to ensure safe care for the young nurse by keeping her in the department until her appointment. This is just one example of how Tami goes above and beyond to provide compassionate extraordinary care.