My nearly 89-year-old mother was admitted for issues related to her heart, stomach, and intestines. Throughout her 4-day stay, everyone on the nursing staff provided excellent care and exhibited kindness toward my mom, but one nurse stood out.

Nina cared for my mom during the day on Monday. Throughout the late morning and afternoon, I was constantly asking Nina questions about the medications and tests being given to my mom, what they were for, and how to spell the drugs. Nina's vast knowledge of medicine was apparent as she patiently provided me with all the information requested, along with a kind smile and a willingness to converse until I understood everything.

Later in the day, my mom experienced repeated bouts of gastrointestinal distress, which was quite upsetting and embarrassing to my mother. Even though Nina was in the final hours of her 12-hour shift, she consistently provided my mom with needed supplies and assistance in cleaning up.

At times, it seemed as though Nina barely made it back to the nursing station before I would again be seeking her help. She never hesitated to come to my mom's aid in a manner that protected my mom's pride and never made either of us feel as though we were disrupting her or bothering her, even when she was taking care of my mother just minutes before her shift was scheduled to end.

I am grateful for Nina's attitude during her care of my mom, her genuine smile, and her expertise in the art of nursing. She is an asset to the Independence Health System, and a gift to her patients and their families.