June 2026 Honoree
Tracy Gastelum, RN, MSN, ACAG-NP-BC
I would like to recognize Tracy Gastelum for the extraordinary compassion, clinical judgment, advocacy, and dedication she demonstrated while serving as House Supervisor.
Tracy identified a patient who appeared medically unsafe for discharge and immediately stepped in to further assess the situation. She took the initiative to speak directly with the patient’s nurse, the discharging physician, and the patient’s family to ensure every concern was thoroughly addressed. Through her careful assessment and strong clinical judgment, Tracy determined the patient was not medically fit to safely return home and took every necessary step to advocate for the patient’s health, safety, and wellbeing.
Despite voicing her concerns and going through multiple channels to advocate for the patient, the discharge still proceeded. Shortly after leaving the hospital, the patient began experiencing increased respiratory distress in his daughter’s car outside the facility. Without hesitation, Tracy immediately intervened and ensured the patient was brought back to the MMC Emergency Department for urgent evaluation by an ER physician. She personally transported the patient by wheelchair back to D Pod, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to patient safety, dignity, and compassionate care.
Beyond her exceptional clinical judgment, Tracy showed immense empathy and compassion toward both the patient and his daughter during a stressful and emotional situation. She remained with them, offering support, reassurance, and guidance while coordinating the next steps in care. Throughout the entire situation, Tracy remained persistent, compassionate, and professional, ensuring the patient received the evaluation and treatment he needed.
Tracy is one of those nurses who consistently goes above and beyond to advocate not only for her patients, but also for her colleagues. She leads with compassion, professionalism, integrity, and courage in every situation she encounters. Her willingness to step in, speak up, and ensure safe patient care makes her an incredible asset to MMC and a true example of nursing excellence.
Her actions exemplify the values of nursing excellence, patient advocacy, teamwork, compassion, and commitment to safe patient care. Tracy’s dedication made a significant difference for this patient and family, and she is truly deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.
Tracy identified a patient who appeared medically unsafe for discharge and immediately stepped in to further assess the situation. She took the initiative to speak directly with the patient’s nurse, the discharging physician, and the patient’s family to ensure every concern was thoroughly addressed. Through her careful assessment and strong clinical judgment, Tracy determined the patient was not medically fit to safely return home and took every necessary step to advocate for the patient’s health, safety, and wellbeing.
Despite voicing her concerns and going through multiple channels to advocate for the patient, the discharge still proceeded. Shortly after leaving the hospital, the patient began experiencing increased respiratory distress in his daughter’s car outside the facility. Without hesitation, Tracy immediately intervened and ensured the patient was brought back to the MMC Emergency Department for urgent evaluation by an ER physician. She personally transported the patient by wheelchair back to D Pod, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to patient safety, dignity, and compassionate care.
Beyond her exceptional clinical judgment, Tracy showed immense empathy and compassion toward both the patient and his daughter during a stressful and emotional situation. She remained with them, offering support, reassurance, and guidance while coordinating the next steps in care. Throughout the entire situation, Tracy remained persistent, compassionate, and professional, ensuring the patient received the evaluation and treatment he needed.
Tracy is one of those nurses who consistently goes above and beyond to advocate not only for her patients, but also for her colleagues. She leads with compassion, professionalism, integrity, and courage in every situation she encounters. Her willingness to step in, speak up, and ensure safe patient care makes her an incredible asset to MMC and a true example of nursing excellence.
Her actions exemplify the values of nursing excellence, patient advocacy, teamwork, compassion, and commitment to safe patient care. Tracy’s dedication made a significant difference for this patient and family, and she is truly deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.
Thank you, Tracy, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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