Amiel Cardenas
April 2026
Amiel
Cardenas
,
BSN, RN
Endocrinology
Intermountain Health Ambulatory
Las Vegas
,
NV
United States
His actions extended far beyond routine clinical duties and exemplified the heart of patient-centered care.
I am honored to recognize Amiel Cardenas for the DAISY Award for his exceptional compassion, sustained dedication, and unwavering commitment to preserving the dignity and well-being of every patient he encounters—whether or not they are under our care.

On two separate occasions, Amiel responded to patients experiencing significant incontinence while stuck in public restrooms. In both situations, he approached the patients with extraordinary empathy and respect, skillfully restoring their dignity by cleaning them up, providing clean clothing, and reassuring them during moments of intense vulnerability.

In the first case, his quick, compassionate intervention not only supported the patient emotionally but also allowed the patient to keep their scheduled appointment with us—preventing an already difficult moment from becoming even more overwhelming.

In the second incident, the patient was not even part of our clinic. Despite this, Amiel demonstrated the same kindness and professionalism. He cleaned her up and attempted to escort her to the correct office. When she was unable to be seen due to timing, he continued advocating for her, ultimately helping coordinate her safe return home with her family.

His actions extended far beyond routine clinical duties and exemplified the heart of patient-centered care.

In addition to these acts of compassion, Amiel has been diligently advocating for one of our patients with thyroid cancer who urgently needs both an ablation and a diagnostic scan. Navigating complicated insurance changes, cost barriers, and conflicting information, Amiel has refused to give up on this patient.

What should have been a straightforward process has stretched into weeks, yet he has persistently contacted insurance companies, imaging centers, and multiple departments across the region to ensure the patient receives timely care.

Because of Amiel’s perseverance, new teams are now involved, and there is renewed hope that treatment will finally move forward soon.

Throughout these delays—compounded by medication delivery issues and scheduling challenges—Amiel has kept the patient and his family informed with clarity, empathy, and consistency.

Amiel embodies the very essence of the DAISY Award. His extraordinary compassion, advocacy, and patient-centered focus elevate the quality of care in our clinic and reflect the highest values of our organization.

His actions—whether responding to urgent moments of human need or tirelessly championing a patient through complex barriers—demonstrate the depth of his character and the profound impact he has on those around him.