I was admitted to the hospital with exacerbation of my chronic heart failure. I was transferred to 9 Kellogg, where I had the pleasure of being assigned to Tanikka. Tanikka embodies technical expertise in the way she explained changes to me, passed medication, and used her technical expertise to advocate withholding medications that would have lowered my blood pressure more than it already was lowered. Tanikka displayed professional courage and her advocacy made my hospitalization more bearable. Tanikka also excelled in relationships and caring. I have been a cardiac patient for 9 years, and I have never received the level of care that Tanikka provided. I did not feel like a piece of meat or a number; Tanikka talked to me like a human and she addressed all my concerns. She listened to me and cheered me up. I am so grateful to her for her simple acts of kindness and caring. I will never forget her.

Lastly, Tanikka displayed critical thinking and leadership. Tanikka has a sharp, intuitive mind, and I felt like I was in competent hands with her! Although the cardiologist questioned it, Tanikka knew that 250 ccs of fluid would help raise my blood pressure. She was correct, and it made all the difference!

In short, Tanikka is a gifted nurse who took away my fears. As an atypical heart patient, I was confused and scared, especially when the critical care team had to be called in. However, looking at Tanikka quietly standing by my side, knowing she cared for me and was my advocate helped me get through a trying time. Tanikka is an amazing nurse that I will never forget. She deserves the highest honor and the utmost praise!