Bertha has a passion for her profession and her patients. She possesses an expertise in Renal services for patients ages 0-99, but she has a very special place in her heart for Pediatric Patients. She has been instrumental in the realization of our new Pediatric Peritoneal Dialysis(PD) Program. Bertha volunteered to be the principal pediatric PD nurse. She has dedicated her time, energy, and expertise into bringing a vision into reality for UC Davis Children's Hospital, Pediatric Nephrology Program. She has truly provided transition of care by forming the bridge from the inpatient setting to the ambulatory clinic. PD training for the families is an intense daily session for two weeks.
Bertha continued to work her regular shifts on the Renal Services Unit, in addition she came in on her days off and before her regular shifts to perform the education required for the single father of our first PD patient. She has also visited the family's home at least 5 times on her own time, to ensure that the space was adequate; infection control was being followed, and most important that the patient was receiving the correct dialysis. Through her caring, patience, and diligence Bertha has formed a very special bond with the patient and her father. Dad is so grateful to have a nurse that speaks Spanish and is able to explain all the steps and procedures that are essential for him to care for his daughter in their own home. Bertha continues to be readily available for this patient and father as a resource, and strong patient advocate.