I was Zach’s Preceptor when he was a new grad. I had known him before as a nursing assistant and knew he was always good with patients. As I worked with Zach as he was training and learning, I realized that he had qualities that cannot be taught. He had a sense of respect for each and every patient and is able to relate to any type of personality. He is compassionate and has an innate sense of who the patient is and how to relate to them. He is patient, kind, and diligent in the care of his patients and the responsibilities of their care. I have watched him grow from “inexperienced” new grad to a competent qualified nurse that I am extremely proud of. I know that he will succeed in any direction of nursing that he chooses to do. He is here for his patients and they love him for it.

One incidence that comes to mind involved a patient who was hospitalized during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. I remember walking out to my car after work and passed Zach coming back in. As we had worked together that day, I asked him why he was coming back in carrying bags of food. It turns out that his plan was to celebrate the holiday with one of his patients. Apparently, this patient was all alone and stuck in a hospital during the holiday. Zach, with his compassionate heart, wanted to make it a little easier for his patient by celebrating with him and watching the ballgame. Complete with food! I felt this was exceptional that he would go out of his way to show empathy towards his patient.

Zach is also a true team player. He is always willing to help. He is upbeat and everyone enjoys working with him. He is an asset to the nursing profession.