Joel has been the primary nurse to a very challenging patient for over a year. This patient has a history of anoxic brain injury and was previously at a board and care facility, but is now a placement issue due to behavioral issues. The patient has two sisters that live on the East Coast and are unable to visit. Joel has cared for this patient as the primary nurse and has established a consistent relationship to help this patient develop trust with the staff. He has gone out of his way to provide personal care items for the patient. Joel purchased an electric razor and aftershave cologne for the patient. Joel goes above the standard of care to provide special attention to him and is very patient with him. He is very attentive to select music preferences that he notices will help calm and relax this patient. He consistently asks the hospital unit service clerk to order early meal trays so he can make sure he can plan the time needed to feed this patient.
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I've been a patient here at UC Davis Medical Center for almost 2 weeks. The entire staff here has been great. I feel I need to mention one man individually, my nurse, Mr. Joel Digao. He has taken the absolute worst and most painful experience of my life and actually made it almost pleasant.
Through Joel's calm, caring, compassionate and laid-back demeanor, and his professional attitude he has made this experience actually tolerable and at time even enjoyable. I appreciate the wonderful care I have received here at UC Davis Medical Center. Thank you, Joel, for your exceptional care.