A colleague recommended Tina today for her compassionate intervention on behalf of a family in the death of their 30-year-old son / brother. Unfortunately, the patient expired before his brother could arrive at the hospital to see him the last time. Despite the challenges associated with multiple admission and emergencies, Tina placed the needs of this family first. She made special arrangements to move the patient's body to a private room, providing a space for the brother and family to grieve.

The family was eternally grateful to Tina for accommodating their special requests and treating them with respect and honesty. They felt heard, validated, and supported in their time of grief.

An experienced and knowledgeable resource, preceptor, and mentor, Tina Tejidor has served as primary charge nurse in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Scripps Mercy since 1992. Her background in critical care is extensive, including certification as a CCRN by the American Association of Critical Care Nurses. Other competencies Tina has maintained include continuous renal replacement therapy (CCRT) and intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) certification. Over the years, she has received numerous Mercy Style of Care awards for her compassionate care, promotion of teamwork, and empathy for critically ill patients and their family members. Tina was the 2007 Nurse of the Year nominee from Critical Care, the embodiment of the ultimate role model with a positive, approachable, and professional attitude and appearance.

Presently, Tina is active in the ICU Early Progressive Mobilization Committee. She attends monthly Charge Nurse Leadership meetings and serves as the MICU day shift schedule proctor. With over 20 years of critical care experience, Tina has touched the lives of countless patients and family members with her expert level of care.