There are a million reasons to nominate Teresa, who consistently shows a dedication to her patients, never turns down a request for help, and will jump and help without being asked. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience, sharing wisdom and being a resource for anyone lucky enough to work with her.

However, the specific example I want to highlight is her care for a patient who has been on our unit for 135 days as of this morning. She takes care of this patient as if he is her closest relative, ensuring that even after months in an ICU bed, his skin is beautifully intact and that he is clean and as well as anyone in the ICU can be. She has developed a rapport with his family members and encompasses a complete care continuum. She has been culturally sensitive to their religion, making sure that he was able to observe traditions.

There is so much more that I could say, but Teresa sets a standard of care that is very high and I think the staff are better for it, trying to measure up to the bar she has set. I am proud to work with her, I'm a better nurse because of it, and I know that my family member would be getting the best care possible if they were unfortunate enough to be in the hospital, but lucky enough to have her as their nurse.