I would like to commend Kathleen Como-Yurchak, RN from the ACU for demonstrating extraordinary care to her patients. I have had the pleasure of working with Kathy during the integration of the ACU in its early development. She has always demonstrated team work, compassion for her patients and has provided exceptional care at any given time, whether it was holding patients in the ED or transferring them to the ACU. I am impressed with her professional growth from pediatric nursing care to acute adult care nursing practice. Kathy has shown compassion to her patients in their time of need and identified their barriers while facilitating resources for them.
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I nominate Kathy for the DAISY Award for demonstrating compassion for her patient during a time of socio-economical loss. This patient had recently been admitted to the inpatient unit for an acute exacerbation of COPD. When the patient was discharged, during July's heat wave, the patient's air conditioning units in her car and in her home had broken. The patient immediately struggled at home, eventually returning to the ED for difficulty breathing. The patient had been admitted for observation into the ACU. Upon interview, the patient had been coping with stresses at home among family. The patient was tearful and struggling with the thought of where she would acquire the funds and the ability to replace her air conditioners. Without any delay, Kathy Como-Yurchak gave her extra air conditioner to the patient, made arrangements for her husband to pack it in the car and make it available for the patient the next day for discharge.
Kathy demonstrated such compassion and genuine caring for this woman in her time of need. During my continued follow up process with this patient, she is so thankful and reports; "Thank God for that nurse!" I am so happy we have Kathy on our team.