Brian Contreras
May 2025
Brian
Contreras
,
RN
7 South Transplant
SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital
St. Louis
,
MO
United States
Thank goodness for nurses like Brian. I know I will never forget him, and I am grateful to have had him by my side on this journey.
In the span of one month, Brian was nominated by 3 patients and the wife of a fourth patient. All three nominations beautifully describe how Brian exemplifies our mission and values every day. They spoke about how he is thorough and meticulous with his nursing care and how safe they felt when he was caring for them. They described him as a team player who is eager to help and always follows through with their requests.
They shared details of how Brian ensured they took daily walks, even when he had to navigate "up to 14 attached drains, tubes, and wires." One said that when she thanked Brian, he said he was only doing his job, and when they left, he thanked them. However, I think the most powerful part of these nominations is that each person shared details about how Brian got to know them, not only as a patient, but as an individual. One said, "From the very beginning, Brian has taken the time to really listen to me, not only to understand my medical needs, but also to learn my personal story. He's taken the time to understand my unique situation, always finding ways to apply what he learns from our interactions to improve his care for others. He is creative in finding solutions to help me stay comfortable in challenging situations. His presence is a constant source of comfort. His thoughtfulness and resourcefulness have made all the difference, showing just how committed he is to providing the highest level of care. Thank goodness for nurses like Brian. I know I will never forget him, and I am grateful to have had him by my side on this journey."
They shared details of how Brian ensured they took daily walks, even when he had to navigate "up to 14 attached drains, tubes, and wires." One said that when she thanked Brian, he said he was only doing his job, and when they left, he thanked them. However, I think the most powerful part of these nominations is that each person shared details about how Brian got to know them, not only as a patient, but as an individual. One said, "From the very beginning, Brian has taken the time to really listen to me, not only to understand my medical needs, but also to learn my personal story. He's taken the time to understand my unique situation, always finding ways to apply what he learns from our interactions to improve his care for others. He is creative in finding solutions to help me stay comfortable in challenging situations. His presence is a constant source of comfort. His thoughtfulness and resourcefulness have made all the difference, showing just how committed he is to providing the highest level of care. Thank goodness for nurses like Brian. I know I will never forget him, and I am grateful to have had him by my side on this journey."