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"This is only one of many examples of her being the first responder to an emergency and through her confidence and skill — producing successful patient outcomes."

UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Organization, surprised then Acute Cardiology Patient Care Technician Emily Yen-Nhi Nguyen — now an RN — with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Two Acute Cardiology inpatient charge nurses nominated Nguyen:

Samantha Level, BSN, RN, PCCN, ACLS:

"I am proud to nominate Emily Nguyen for the BEE Award for her quick and compassionate actions during a recent code. The patient suddenly went into an arrythmia, and Emily didn’t hesitate — she immediately jumped in to assess the patient and began CPR when he lost a pulse without delay.

"Throughout the emergency — Emily remained calm, focused, and communicative. Her ability to effectively relay information while performing CPR was truly impressive and helped ensure a smooth, coordinated response from the care team. Thanks in part to Emily's quick thinking and confident action until the code team arrived, the patient was safely transferred to the CCU.

"I was very impressed by Emily’s teamwork and professionalism under pressure. She demonstrated exactly what it means to go above and beyond for our patients. We are incredibly fortunate to have someone like her on our team, and I am genuinely proud to welcome her as a future nurse to our unit.

"Emily embodies the spirit of the BEE Award, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition."

Katie Patnode, MSN, RN:

"Emily always has been and continues to be an asset to the Acute Cardiology team. She ensures she is always at the right place at the right time, though if you would ask her, she would say that she is just 'nosy.' Emily is the first to jump into any emergency situation and lend a helping hand. She is confident in her practice, while remaining an eager student in her career.

"Emily was assigned as the PCT on 4 North and was stopping by to check on her colleagues on 4 West. A patient went into a lethal rhythm on 4 West while Emily was visiting, and she immediately was the first person in the room as the first responder and initiated CPR. This is only one of many examples of her being the first responder to an emergency and through her confidence and skill — producing successful patient outcomes.

"Emily has balanced her career as a PCT while also being a full-time, BSN student at UVA School of Nursing. Now she's graduated and will be onboarding as a RN Clinician 1 with Acute Cardiology. This unit is extremely lucky to have her determination, skill, and kindness — and our patient population will benefit greatly with her advancing her career with us!"

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.