The week I spent in the CCU was the most overwhelming and scariest time of my life. I have many nurses to thank for such outstanding care. The CCU as a whole is full of amazing caregivers, but I need to recognize one nurse in particular. Amalia is an angel and the best nurse Rhode Island Hospital has to offer. Amalia exhibits compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence. And she does all four on a daily basis. Amalia puts her patients first and one can tell that she genuinely cares. She went above and beyond for me! She listened to my concerns about having to get an ICD and about being discharged with it. She helped me not be scared of the ICD placement. Amalia didn't belittle my worries or just say something to pacify me. Instead, we talked each concern I had out, breaking each one down so I couldn't make a mountain out of a molehill and help me understand the process better. And she wouldn't leave until I understood and was confident in my reaction/response. Amalia has a great sense of humor and helped me at times laugh when I was going through the darkest time I've ever experienced. I was in the CCU going through this alone without support from family or friends. Amalia unknowingly stepped into those roles. She provided comfort and was stern when necessary. She had my back! Amalia made sure I had dinner waiting for me in my CCU room after a long day of tests and ICD placement surgery and being NPO. Something as small as making sure I had dinner meant the world. I feel like when I think of the definition of nursing, it every single trait I saw in Amalia while I was her patient for 2 days! She is caring and tender, knowledge, funny, and patient-oriented. Amalia should be recognized daily for the outstanding nurse she is. I was lucky to fall under her care!
Note: This is Amalia's 2nd DAISY Award!