We would like to recognize the outstanding work of Michael McCarthy when caring for one of our CCU patients. Michael was caring for one of our VAD patients when the patient began having a large GI bleed. We needed many acute interventions (fluid bolus, labs, adjustment of anticoagulation, frequent vitals, imaging, several consults, and ultimately transfer to CICU for observation).

During this acute period, Michael was calm, attentive to the patient, very organized, and an excellent communicator. He responded to our interventions quickly, which helped expedite the level of care needed to care for an acutely bleeding patient, often anticipating and suggesting needed interventions. He maintained an extremely high level of care delivery in a setting that could easily become overwhelming. He delivered excellent, timely care and maintained an organized, calm environment, which set the tone for everyone else. He also had excellent support from Delaney, who was the charge nurse that day, and the two worked seamlessly together. This scenario was an illustration of the high level of care we provide on the CCU, and we acknowledge and appreciate Michael, Delaney, and all of the CCU staff who share this level of excellence.

Michael maintains a calm demeanor whenever he is at work. He serves many roles on CCU as a bedside nurse, charge nurse, member of the VAD squad, and, most recently, as the unit educator. Whenever he is working, he creates an environment of calm, compassionate care. He is a great communicator who appropriately follows up and closes the loop with various aspects of care. He also asks great questions about patient care, has an A+ attitude, and is always learning while at work. He easily builds trust with patients and his colleagues by paying attention to small details about patient care plans and co-worker patient load, and he regularly asks how his co-workers are doing throughout the day. He is a great example of empathy, compassion, and teamwork.