I have had the pleasure of working with Andrew Vasko over the last year and I have witnessed daily his compassion for our patients. As all units in our facility, ours can be quite challenging and Andy is amazing with all patients and family members that he encounters. There is one patient that he truly demonstrated such empathy and grace.
Andy's patient was dealing with some very difficult circumstances and had been here for quite a while. The patient was homeless and came in with dirty clothing as he had been wearing them for some time. The hospital setting can be extremely stressful for certain patients, and at times tensions run high and care can be difficult, and quite challenging. Andy, with his gentle touch, kind demeanor, and most importantly empathy, allowed this patient to develop trust with the staff on our unit. Andy went out of his way, took the time to take this patient for a shower, took the dirty clothing off this patient and walked it over to building 60, where there are laundry facilities and washed them so that he could have clean clothes to change into upon his discharge. The patient was overwhelmed and so grateful for Andy's kindness, and concern. Andy reminds me of the importance of stepping back and remembering why I am truly here.
Andy is a true team player, patient advocate and an all-around great nurse with a great attitude towards life. Andy takes his time in explaining each patient's plan of care and what would be expected. He is a very empathetic exceptional nurse and is very deserving of this award. Andy is always going the extra mile in helping his fellow workers, shows and expresses interest in everyone's well-being. Thank you Andy; for your commitment and passion when caring for our patients, for always being helpful to others, being so kind, and being a dignified nurse.