This letter is regarding my clinical experience with my preceptor, Tanya Bermea, RN. From my first day in the ICU almost a month ago, to my last day in the unit, I feel better prepared to enter the field of nursing thanks to Miss Bermea. On my first day meeting Miss Bermea, she sat down and asked me what goals I wished to accomplish during my clinical hours in the ICU, and how she may best support me throughout my experience. She consistently went out of her way to ensure I had all the information, materials, and support I needed to enhance my learning experience, and always encouraged me to ask any questions. She demonstrated kindness and patience when answering any questions I had, and provided a “high-five” and feedback upon practicing a skill or procedure.

Tanya Bermea is the nurse I dreamed of becoming as a little girl. Miss Bermea demonstrated compassion for each of her patients and their families beyond measure by utilizing a holistic approach to nursing. It was never a surprise that the patients or their families would ask if she would be their nurse the following day. Miss Bermea took the time to build rapport with her patients and their families and would deliver every ounce of compassion, dedication, and professionalism she had. Like any great nurse, Miss Bermea focused on the big picture of caring for and healing our patients. But through Miss Bermea, I learned the importance of how the little things can make such an impact, and that nursing goes far beyond nursing interventions and procedures.

Whether it be playing music to alleviate the pain felt during dressing changes, seeing a patient smile after brushing and braiding her previously matted hair, or offering to pray with a grieving family, these moments greatly impact the care and healing experience of those we serve. Miss Bermea is a fount of nursing knowledge with unparalleled skills I had never experienced with previous preceptors. It was an honor being Miss Bermea’s preceptee for the last few weeks. Nursing school has taught me the skills I needed to become a nurse, but Miss Bermea truly showed me what it meant to BE an amazing nurse and practice with heart. It is my wish to be a great nurse and preceptor one day, just like Miss Bermea.