Mr. Jose Cruz-Velez and Ms. Sumerset were nominated by their Cath Lab colleague Mark Longanilla, RN. Mr. Longanilla stated, “They were both a shining example of what signifies a DAISY Award recipient by their extraordinary, compassionate, and skillful care following a post-catheterization patient. Both collectively exemplified clinical excellence with their actions that went above and beyond routine care. Ms. Sumerset has a wealth of knowledge as she has been a nurse for over 30 years. Her nursing journey took her from CCU to 4B, then to Home Based, and back to 4B as this was where her heart belonged. Mr. Cruz-Velez has been on 4B for a little over a year, coming from the Big Springs VA CLC. Mr. Cruz spent some time in Cath Lab recovery and Heart Station to cross-train.

Mr. Cruz-Velez and Ms. Sumerset’s keen assessment skills were instrumental in identifying the signs of cardiac tamponade in a patient who was recently transferred from the Cardiac Cath Laboratory to 4B Short Stay/Infusion. Cardiac Tamponade is a life-threatening uncommon complication for patients who undergo percutaneous coronary interventions. Mr. Cruz-Velez recognized the critical situation upon receiving the patient and swiftly compared the vital signs obtained upon arrival to 4B during the assessment. Mr. Velez immediately notified Ms. Sumerset, the Charge Nurse, for assistance and made a crucial decision to activate DARRT for a rapid response. It was not only their quick thinking and prompt attention, but also their teamwork, collaboration, and partnership that successfully managed to stabilize the patient as cardiac tamponade requires immediate recognition, attention, and treatment to prevent cardiovascular collapse or arrest. Their quick action and unwavering confidence in their nursing skills which averted a major medical emergency. The patient was transferred safely back to the Cath lab which led to successful pericardiocentesis.