Erica is one of those rare nurses who manage to balance a crazy hectic workday with genuine concern for the patient. No matter how much work and stress is thrown at her, she has a smile on her face and does what is right for the patient.
I remember a few months into my time with the VNA, an email came through after hours (and after Erica's shift) that a doctor at the hospital was refusing to medicate a patient who was very clearly uncomfortable. Despite having worked a 10+ hour workday, Erica turned right around and went back to the hospital to speak with the doctor and make sure this patient didn't die in pain. It is the mark of a great nurse who does the right thing, even when no one is looking and no one is praising you. We get countless letters from families thanking her for her kindness in one of the most stressful times of their lives. Hospice is about living a life of quality and a life of love. Erica allows her patients and their families to do this, simply by being present. Her presence in their lives is a gift.