DAISY Award—Hien Van, M.S.N., R.N.

Davis 6 Cardiology

I came to UC Davis from Reno for a consultation regarding a repair of my mitral valve. The doctor admitted me the same day because my heart function was severely compromised. I was told I would not survive if I went home and continued with the same meds I was taking. It was recommended that I have open heart surgery to put in a heart pump. After 3 weeks in the hospital the decision was made to put in a CRT defibrillator which would buy me more time to make a decision regarding the pump. Needless to say, it was all very stressful. I was fortunate to be assigned Hien as one of my nurses. Hien is truly exceptional. One night I was so overtired and stressed, I couldn't sleep, and I had severe pain in my back. She took the time to stay with me and massaged my back so I could get some sleep. She stood by my side when I was depressed and took the time to talk, which calmed me. She is knowledgeable about medications and procedures and she would explain that the doctors had changed meds and why they changed. Hien knew that if I was well informed, I would feel less stressed. She understood the medical equipment I had received and was able to answer my questions regarding this device which put my mind at ease. At my lowest moments she was there to lend support and bolster my spirits. I am so grateful to have had Hien as my nurse.