A veteran was to be discharged with a Freestyle continuous glucose meter. This was something new for the veteran, and staff on the unit had not been educated on educating patients and how to place continuous glucose meters. Ms. Russell reached out to the Diabetic educator, who, unfortunately, was out of the office. Additionally, an issue developed when pharmacy could not send the needle up for administration until the patient had been discharged, but also could not educate the patient and aid with administration of the monitor. Ms. Russell was able to utilize resources such as Elsevier, Up to Date, Lexicomp, and other educational resources to develop a full understanding of how to administer the device. Ms. Russell also took the time to read the instructions with the patient and his wife. She utilized multiple teaching methods to ensure understanding, allowed the veteran and his wife to see each piece of the kit used, hold it, and was very detailed in explaining each step. Ms. Russell also pulled in additional nurses to educate them on the new procedure and developed a plan to ensure all nurses are educated on this procedure. Ms. Russell was not assigned to this patient and stayed two and a half hours after her tour to ensure proper education was completed. This shows commitment to the VA, upholds the ICARE standards (specifically commitment and compassion to the veterans, advocacy to the veteran for his understanding and safety, and excellence in care), upholds the VA's mission and Vision, and showed through her actions that the veteran is important, is seen, their concerns are heard, and shows that the VA cares about them and is compassionate for them in this new diagnosis and process.

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Vicky has a clearly visible bubble of optimism, experience, and leadership. While I walked my laps in the unit, I constantly witnessed Vicky bringing cheer to patients and staff, providing expertise, and assisting staff in maintaining their training. It is clear Vicky brings so much to the unit. The VA should be proud Vicky made the choice to work here. The most impressive part is that she accomplished all of this as a sailor, a sign someone normally can’t expect to excel at a marine level.