There are many examples of Sarah’s clinical excellence, such as when prior to a patient’s scheduled surgery, Sarah learned that a potassium-lowering medication had been discontinued. The change did not seem clinically appropriate to her, so she proactively contacted the nephrologist to clarify the plan of care.

Her instincts were correct — the medication was intended to be continued. Because of Sarah’s initiative and critical thinking, the medication was resumed, and the patient was able to proceed safely with surgery as scheduled.

However, what truly distinguishes Sarah is the consistent work she does behind the scenes to advocate for patients. She does not take a “wait and see” approach. Instead, she proactively reaches out to physicians, long-term care facilities, laboratories, and other members of the Interdisciplinary team to ensure information is accurate and patients receive timely, appropriate care.

Sarah brings this same proactive approach to reducing patients’ reliance on CVCs. She works closely with patients and vascular surgery departments to coordinate access appointments, ensures patients attend their scheduled visits, and follows through with thorough documentation and communication. Her persistence and follow-up help move patients toward safer, more permanent vascular access, directly improving their long-term outcomes.

Sarah is exceptionally reliable and responsive — requests never need to be repeated. She anticipates needs, follows through promptly, and communicates clearly with both colleagues and providers. She has taken initiative with fluid and blood pressure monitoring reports, carefully analyzing patients’ target weights and collaborating with physicians to optimize care. In addition, she completes her comprehensive assessments thoroughly and in a timely manner, ensuring continuity and quality of care.

Sarah’s clinical expertise, initiative, and unwavering advocacy make her an invaluable member of our team and a truly deserving candidate for this award.