As registered nurses in Primary Care, we are charged with following and managing the care of diabetic patients. One of Vernice's patients was having a hard time controlling her blood sugar, largely because of financial difficulties. When Vernice found out this patient could not afford healthy foods and was relying on a family member to provide food, which was oftentimes processed or fast foods, she decided, she could help. For Thanksgiving, she wanted to provide the family with a turkey dinner, since they were not going to be doing anything special. Inadvertently, other members of the Primary Care Clinic heard of her plans and volunteered to contribute either money or food to make this truly special. Vernice was able to provide this patient and her family not only food for Thanksgiving but also a basket of food and a gift card to the local grocery store for other essential food items for the week.
Vernice is an extraordinary nurse who not only has amazing clinical skills but has a genuine and compassionate heart which she gives to each of her patients. Additionally, her exuberance is inspirational to the rest of her co-workers and staff in Primary Care. This particular patient is just one of the patients who have benefited from her expertise and compassion every day.
Vernice's clinical skill and especially her compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that our patients, their families, and our staff recognize as an outstanding role model. She consistently meets the following criteria that highlights Kaiser Permanente nursing values of professionalism, compassion, integrity, teamwork, excellence, and patient and family-centric. She goes above and beyond, connects with patients and families, has a positive, professional attitude, provides quality care and service, and collaborates with team members.