Elsa Cruz
November 2024
Elsa
Cruz
,
RN
Pediatric Float Team
St. Joseph's Children's Hospital
Tampa
,
FL
United States
Her expertise, kindness, and dedication to her patients went far beyond what I could have hoped for.
My daughter had a severe infection. Her temperature and heart rate soared, and she couldn’t walk. Her leg was swollen from toe to thigh, and she constantly complained of excruciating hip pain. She was no longer the vibrant, energetic child we knew, and it broke my heart to see her so weak and helpless. We were admitted, and from the moment we arrived, we were blessed to be cared for by this nurse. She walked into the room, radiating positive energy, and as soon as my daughter heard her name, her eyes lit up. Her nursing skills were as remarkable as her name. Her critical thinking, quick response, and compassionate care were truly extraordinary. She embodies the BayCare values of responsibility, excellence, trust, respect, and dignity. She demonstrated these values in every aspect of her care, not only through her technical expertise but in how she treated my daughter and me. Throughout our time in the hospital, she was incredibly patient with me, explaining each step of the care plan and reassuring my anxious mother’s heart. She ensured that my daughter was comfortable and well-cared for at every stage of her treatment. When she experienced an allergic reaction to her antibiotics, she acted swiftly—changing the entire IV line, contacting the provider, and securing an order for Benadryl. When she developed a fever, she ensured the medications were administered in liquid form, ensuring her comfort at all times. Her expertise, kindness, and dedication to her patients went far beyond what I could have hoped for. I am so thankful that, by God's grace, we were placed under her care. Her exceptional professionalism and heart were a source of immense comfort during an incredibly challenging time.