I am a nurse in the GI lab and each day a CRNA is assigned to the room we are working in. A while back we had a female outpatient veteran who had a history of experiencing sexual trauma. This information was provided to me as well as the other staff members in the room by our CRNA,  Angela Jaap.

This veteran had a history of substance abuse and verbalized that she was very nervous about the treatment that she would receive, having been stigmatized in the healthcare system in the past, as well as being very anxious about her colonoscopy for obvious reasons as a survivor of sexual trauma.  

From the initial point of contact Angela advocated for this veteran in a genuinely caring way, ensuring that we honored her wishes by staffing our procedure room with all females and treating her with the respect a human being deserves. Additionally, she stayed at her side before the procedure until the very anxious veteran was calm.  She explained everything to prepare our patient for what was to come and continued to give her words of reassurance and tell her she was safe throughout the entire interaction. She ensured her physical dignity and privacy at all times, considering a colonoscopy can be a sensitive thing to endure and she was very discreet when advocating for and speaking to the veteran. 

 Our procedure room was running late due to some E record issues, but Angela did not demonstrate a single ounce or indication of frustration or rushing/impatience. 

It was very clear that her priority was the veteran, which is exactly what it should be.  I’ve been here at UD for almost two years, and I’ve seen her give nothing but excellent efficient and thorough care, but truly she went above and beyond with this veteran who needed to know that she mattered and was emotionally and physically safe. 

After the procedure Angela gently woke up the vet again with reassuring words and telling her that she was right there at her side.  When the patient did wake up, she asked if she could give Angela a hug and Angela said “of course”.  They spoke for a while very quietly together and I could tell the female veteran found this experience to be positive and safe and I have no doubt that it was due to Angela’s truly exceptional care and deeply caring nature. 

I was so inspired by this interaction.  In my 25 years of nursing, I do not believe I have ever been more grateful about the care that I have received or honestly witnessed anything like it ever.  
 
It was just remarkable.  She is such an asset to our heroes. I was deeply moved.  

She deserves to be honored for her professionalism, skill, advocacy, and true compassion.