Shanae stepped into the role of a “Relief Charge Nurse” one day during a high census and high acuity day in the ED. She easily took up the roles and responsibilities required for such a position and did so exemplarily. During shift change, while the huddle was happening, a patient went into cardiac arrest. Shanae heard my call for assistance and immediately came to the bedside. As compressions started, Shanae began to comfort the family members and escorted them out of the room while also making sure the equipment and supplies that were needed were available. Shanae continued to help run the code while also helping to control the chaos and business of shift change. When ROSC was achieved, she helped facilitate moving the patient to a higher acuity room and reuniting the family with the patient.

Shanae did this all with professionalism, compassion, and a level of nursing knowledge and skill that few have. She stepped into the role of a nursing leader naturally and exceeded any expectations of such. Shanae stayed late to help ensure the patient was settled and to check in with the family, as well as the staff who were involved. Shanae continues to be an example of a thoughtful, knowledgeable, and empathetic nurse each day. She treats every patient with the utmost kindness and respect. Shanae is a nurse I look up to.