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“Deeba Tasleem now heads my Earth angel list!"

The Nursing Professional Governance Organization honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members each month with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Reid Adams and BEE Award Committee Chair Hannah Kolpack surprised Deeba Tasleem, Cardiac Transition Unit, with the BEE Award.

Deeba was nominated by a patient:

"When I came to the hospital to have an ablation procedure, I was concerned they would have a difficult time getting an IV started because that had been an issue a few weeks before at another hospital. Deeba, friendly and smiling, reassured me from the start that she would have no problem getting one started — and quick as a wink — she proved herself true!

"After that, Deeba popped in periodically just to make small talk and make sure I was comfortable. Following the procedure, Deeba was there with warm blankets and more reassuring smiles as she checked my vital signs and the procedure sites. When one of the sites began to bleed profusely, Deeba responded very calmly as she summoned others and quickly began to apply pressure, all the while reassuring me everything was under control. I knew it was, because I felt her confidence.

"I was weak and unsteady on my feet as I was preparing to go home. I had refused food all day because I think (along with my nerves) the drugs took away my appetite, so Deeba insisted I eat something before I left. Then she took me for a short walk until she was reassured that I was strong enough to go.

"Today I am home and doing very well. Deeba Tasleem now heads my earth angel list!"

Deeba also was nominated by the spouse of another patient:

"Deeba was my husband's caregiver during his stay on the unit. She was truly wonderful and did everything she could to make both of us comfortable. Not only is she good at her job, but she made us feel like family!

"As the spouse of the patient, I never presume to be cared for in a hospital setting. But Deeba brought me warm blankets, food, and drinks and made sure I was prepared for the overnight I wasn't expecting. I felt like my sister was looking out for me! We've been in many hospitals in many cities and have always received good medical care. But you don't always receive 'human' care. In this case, we did.

"Everyone we came into contact with at UVA Health was professional and friendly. But Deeba went above and beyond in her concern for us! Thank you, Deeba!"

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. Submit a nomination.