December 2014
Regina
Westemeier
,
RN
ER
Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center (Milwaukee VA)
Milwaukee
,
WI
United States

 

 

 

Regina's nomination came from a Veteran's family member. She frequently travels and has been telling people "everywhere she goes" how great the Milwaukee VA is - in large part because of nurses like Regina. She wrote:

"We met Regina when G was admitted to the VA hospital through the ER. He had pneumonia. Regina was doing the admission questions. G was so sick and his ability to be tough fell away and he started to cry. He was 89 at the time. Regina bent close so he could hear her, acknowledged his service in WWII and thanked him for his service. In an instant she made him feel like the hero he is. We were all so grateful! Regina is an excellent nurse and helped G's family understand his health problems. She helped us understand what to expect and in the end, she helped us prepare for his death.

She had a profound impact on us and I will never forget her kindness. The VA is lucky to have such a kind and skilled nurse. When you hear negative things about VA hospitals in other parts of the country, we relate our great experience."