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Learn how this UVA Health University Medical Center patient care technician makes each move matter.

UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and BEE Award Committee Chair Samantha Shifflett surprised Monika Vuckovic, Patient Care Technician, Acute Cardiology, with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award, for going above and beyond for patients.

A patient nominated Vuckovic:

"Monika came into my room, introduced herself, said she would be with me, and asked if she could take my vitals. I could immediately tell she was a nice person and ready to work! She had a drive about her that was quickly noticeable such as getting the room into order, and putting things in their place.

"She asked if I needed anything and said she would be back soon to check in on me. Each day she came, she always asked what she could do for me before leaving the room and said that if I needed anything else, to please let her know.

"I had Monika as my PCT several times throughout my stay. She always showed that same drive and positive attitude each time. We had some nice conversations which I enjoyed very much. She mostly listened to me and I would ask her if she got some sleep and if she had any family.

"Little things like that made it easier for me so I can forget my health issues and enjoy knowing about other people's lives. I would like to point out a few things that I felt Monika did above and beyond:

• "I was unhooking my monitor when I would go to the bathroom because the monitor was irritating, then it would fall down. Monika came to my room, knocked on the bathroom door, and said I had to keep my monitor on. I told her why I'd been unhooking it. Within a couple of minutes, Monika was back at the door and asked if she could come in. She put the monitor in a holder, and hung it around my neck! I was glad because now it wouldn't be falling out of my gown that I had on from home!
• "One evening I needed some powder the doctor had ordered for me. I asked Monika if she could help put it on me. She said she could definitely help me and understood why I preferred her to do it. When Monika came back, she had bath supplies and cream as well as the powder and a fresh gown. She bathed me. It felt so good to feel so clean. She applied the cream and powder onto the areas needed. She did not make me feel embarrassed at all. Then Monika put fresh socks and a gown on me. She also brought a hairbrush and toiletries, which was very helpful.
• "As if that wasn't enough, Monika took my clothes from home I had been wearing, to the laundry area for washing. She went back later before her shift ended and picked them up for me. When I was discharged home, I wore my fresh gown that I wore to the hospital on the first day. That really was nice to have!

"I was so appreciative of the care Monika showed me, how professional she was on each shift, and how concerned she was about improving my stay! I hope Monika Vuckovic continues to work in healthcare, for I know she has a good heart and cares for her patients!"

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Every month, the Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members with this award. Submit a nomination.