Erika Ziegelmaier exemplifies always going above and beyond for her patients.  She embodies all the VA values. Urgent cares in our area that took VA insurance have closed. Because of this, we have seen an increase in walk ins.  Erika will always stop what she is doing to see patients. I have seen this firsthand this past month when a patient came in with issues. Erika’s tour of duty was over, but she sat with him to listen to his concerns and get him the help he needed. During Nurse’s Week in May, this same patient came into the clinic with chocolates and flowers to express his appreciation for Erika and how much she does for him.  He is so appreciative of his care and how she has helped him get the treatment he needed.

I also, had a Vietnam Veteran call our clinic from his hospital room to tell me that his RNCM in his own words, “saved my ass and life, and I would be dead right now if it wasn’t for her.” His voice was choked up with emotion and tears. His story brought me to tears.  Erika Ziegelmaier RNCM in our Dubuque CBOC has taken care of this Veteran for almost a year. He stated that Erika makes all his visits joyful and enjoys her professional manner. Because he trusts Erika, he sought her out in our clinic because he was having intractable pain and not feeling well. Erika immediately triaged him and did her assessment. She knew he was in trouble and wanted to activate EMS.  The patient wanted to drive himself, but Erika knew he was in trouble and got the patient to agree to let his family member take him to the ER. Upon arriving at the ER and walking in, he collapsed and was hospitalized. It was found that he had a critical blood count and was given multiple blood transfusions. He is being referred onto hematology/oncology. He said her quick thinking and kind manner is getting him the help he needs. Erika has been a great addition to our clinic and always puts the Veterans' needs first. She is always willing to help and always is available for a Veteran when they walk in without an appointment.  This Veteran is now on his way to getting a diagnosis. He is utilizing many services that the VA offers. Primary care, pharmacy, social worker, home telehealth, psychiatry, and veteran’s crisis line. Because of his health issues, he is a high suicide risk and is getting the help he needs.  She really did help save his life.

She has also brought her expertise to the clinic and her peers dealing with continuous glucose monitors. She has helped establish shared medical appointments to teach Veterans how to use these monitors. 
 
She has been recognized several times in The Insider by her peers for her work ethic and teamwork. She truly exemplifies the intent of the DAISY Award.