Austin Zimmerman
September 2025
Austin
Zimmerman
,
ASN, RN
Emergency Department
Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital
Muncie
,
IN
United States
He consistently delivers care that goes beyond clinical duties, embodying the heart of nursing.
Recently, Austin provided extraordinary care to a male patient in his early 40s who presented with symptoms of vomiting and abdominal pain. The patient was alert, oriented, and able to communicate, yet Austin sensed that something was profoundly wrong.
Despite the seemingly routine presentation, Austin’s clinical intuition and attentiveness led him to advocate urgently for a CT scan. The results revealed a terminal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Thanks to Austin’s swift action, the diagnosis was made in time to initiate critical conversations and decisions.
Dr. Matthew Routh, the attending provider, worked relentlessly to find a facility willing to accept the patient. Methodist Hospital declined, deeming the case inoperable, and five additional hospitals across Ohio were contacted in a desperate attempt to secure a transfer. During this time, the patient’s wife was understandably overwhelmed – grappling with shock, grief, and the reality of potentially losing her husband, with two children at home.
Austin demonstrated exceptional emotional intelligence and compassion, gently guiding her through the moment. He told her, “This is hard, but if there is anyone – anyone you feel he needs to say goodbye to, get them in here”. That simple, profound gesture allowed the family to gather and share precious final moments.
As someone who has personally experienced the loss of a loved one to AAA without the chance to say goodbye, I can attest to the immeasurable gift Austin gave this family. His presence, empathy, and foresight created space for connection, closure, and peace in the midst of tragedy. Ultimately, the patient was accepted at a hospital farther away, but sadly passed before reaching the operating table. Still, because of Austin’s quick recognition and decisive action, the family was able to “Just be” together – something they will carry with them forever.
Austin exemplified purpose, compassion, and excellence in every patient interaction. He consistently delivers care that goes beyond clinical duties, embodying the heart of nursing. Though he never seeks recognition, his impact is undeniable. We are deeply grateful to have him on our team and proud to nominate him for this award.
Despite the seemingly routine presentation, Austin’s clinical intuition and attentiveness led him to advocate urgently for a CT scan. The results revealed a terminal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Thanks to Austin’s swift action, the diagnosis was made in time to initiate critical conversations and decisions.
Dr. Matthew Routh, the attending provider, worked relentlessly to find a facility willing to accept the patient. Methodist Hospital declined, deeming the case inoperable, and five additional hospitals across Ohio were contacted in a desperate attempt to secure a transfer. During this time, the patient’s wife was understandably overwhelmed – grappling with shock, grief, and the reality of potentially losing her husband, with two children at home.
Austin demonstrated exceptional emotional intelligence and compassion, gently guiding her through the moment. He told her, “This is hard, but if there is anyone – anyone you feel he needs to say goodbye to, get them in here”. That simple, profound gesture allowed the family to gather and share precious final moments.
As someone who has personally experienced the loss of a loved one to AAA without the chance to say goodbye, I can attest to the immeasurable gift Austin gave this family. His presence, empathy, and foresight created space for connection, closure, and peace in the midst of tragedy. Ultimately, the patient was accepted at a hospital farther away, but sadly passed before reaching the operating table. Still, because of Austin’s quick recognition and decisive action, the family was able to “Just be” together – something they will carry with them forever.
Austin exemplified purpose, compassion, and excellence in every patient interaction. He consistently delivers care that goes beyond clinical duties, embodying the heart of nursing. Though he never seeks recognition, his impact is undeniable. We are deeply grateful to have him on our team and proud to nominate him for this award.