Zack O'Krakel
September 2025
Zack
O'Krakel
,
RN
Emergency Dept
MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital
Tacoma
,
WA
United States
​​​​​​​Because he took the time to communicate clearly and calmly, I was able to stay grounded and know what to expect
Nurse Zack's care made a difficult experience safe, calm, and understandable for me. I have autism, and hospital settings can be overwhelming. From the moment Zack introduced himself, he slowed things down and met me where I was. He explained what he was doing and why before every step, checked that I understood, and gave me time to process and ask questions.

Because he took the time to communicate clearly and calmly, I was able to stay grounded and know what to expect. That made all the difference. Zack listened—really listened. He treated my concerns with respect, made sure I felt heard, and never rushed me. He kept me updated, told me what sensations I might feel, and let me know how long things would take. His calm presence and thoughtful explanations helped me feel safe, respected, and in control of my care.

I always felt like a person, not a task. What stood out most was how intentional he was about reducing my anxiety and supporting my communication needs. He used clear language, checked in often, and celebrated small wins with me. His kindness was steady, his professionalism unwavering, and his advocacy for my comfort obvious in every interaction. Because of Zack, an experience that could have been scary became manageable.

He embodied the best of nursing—compassion, communication, and genuine respect for the patient. He didn’t just provide excellent clinical care; he built trust. I left feeling cared for, informed, and grateful. Zack deserves this recognition for the extraordinary difference he made in my care.