Liz exemplifies what it means to be a nurse here at City of Hope, and this past weekend just proves it. Not only is she one of the amazing charge nurses here in pediatrics, but she is also an amazing educator, teaching the next generation of nurses. She approaches everything with a smile and incredible knowledge that makes everyone around her feel more confident and at ease.

I think we sometimes forget just how amazing she is until something like what happened last weekend brings her excellence back to the forefront. While taking her oral medications, one of the pediatric patients began to choke, turn blue, and stop breathing. A Code Blue was called, but before a rapid response team could arrive, Liz had taken charge. She was able to perform a perfect Heimlich maneuver, effectively clearing the patient's airway. Ever humble, she blows the praise for this kind of calmness under pressure off as just what you are supposed to do as a nurse.

That being said, this is an example of strong efficiency when a patient's life is on the line, which nurses and physicians alike strive to achieve as providers. Liz is not only an example to her students but also to all her colleagues here in pediatrics. I feel safer knowing that Liz and all those she has trained are on the unit, and if it were my kids who were sick, this is where I would want them cared for.