Jorge is a long-time member of the St. Francis Family. He joined us 31 years ago, first sharing his dedicated service in EVS. He later transferred to the Linen Department, followed by Transportation. Answering his inner calling to serve in direct patient care, he became an EMT in our ER, obtaining his RN license and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree along the way.

Here is an example of why Jorge is so deserving of this award, as described in one of his nominations:

It was an eye-jerking moment to see this RN show the utmost compassion for a mentally ill patient. The 57-year-old Spanish-speaking woman was brought in by ambulance crying and screaming like a little child… The patient could not communicate and was unresponsive to anyone who tried to assist. The patient was constantly trying to get out of bed. The ER was busy, and different staff attempted to calm her, but nothing worked. Jorge went to the patient's bedside. Minutes later there was suddenly no more crying and yelling. When I walked by the room to see what changed, Jorge was at the patient's bedside playing a well-known Spanish lullaby. The patient on her own slid back up into the bed, crossed her arms and legs, closed her eyes, and smiled. It was the most beautiful thing. My eyes filled with joy. You would think Jorge was caring for his own mother or grandmother. Jorge continued to play the music so the patient could get her CT Scan and blood draw. It is amazing how Jorge got creative to help care for this patient rather than using sedation or restraints. Jorge is an exceptional nurse and a pleasure to work with.