CNA Recognized For Exceptional Care At Central Texas Medical Center

SAN MARCOS, TEXAS—Michelle Esparza, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), was honored at Central Texas Medical Center (CTMC) as the hospital’s first Sunflower Award recipient.

The award recognizes ancillary nursing staff, which includes Nursing Assistants and Nursing Technicians, who show uncommon compassion, integrity, leadership and education to patients and their families.

“The sunflower represents resiliency, strength and compassion. I am proud to lead a nursing staff that exemplifies those qualities every day,” said Catherine Amitrano, CTMC Chief Nursing Officer. “It is an honor to recognize members of our ancillary staff with the Sunflower Award for their continued dedication to our patients and our mission.”

Esparza was nominated by a CTMC nurse, who was relieving staff for lunch on the Medical/Surgery Unit.

On a day the team was short-staffed, Esparza rushed into a patient’s room, without needing to be called, to assist the nominating nurse.

She demonstrated expertise in transferring a knee surgery patient from the bed in a way that caused the patient the least amount of pain.

When the patient expressed concern about an incident that happened earlier in the day, Esparza quietly listened, showing compassion and understanding. This patient was extremely grateful to Esparza for her kindness and professionalism.

CTMC will continue to honor its members of its ancillary nursing staff with the Sunflower Award quarterly. Caregivers may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues. 

The award recipient is chosen by a committee at CTMC and awards are presented throughout the year at celebrations attended by the Honoree’s colleagues, patients and visitors.