“In the last few years, Ayra elevated our department’s culture of safety and expeditious care to a much higher echelon — beyond the standard,” said Leo Ruel Eusebio, MSN, MHA, RN, CEN, CPEN, Emergency Department service director, Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center.
Ayra Dee, BSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, is a staff nurse IV in the Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center Emergency Department and a 23-year employee.
Inspiration for Nursing
“I was fascinated with medical science and its impact on caring for others. I can make a meaningful difference by helping others and understanding how their bodies function,” said Dee.
“My nursing colleagues are also a constant source of inspiration. They show immense dedication, compassion, and resilience. I admire how they manage the demands of patient care while remaining empathetic. From their communication with patients to their collaboration in solving problems, I learn something new from them every day,” added Dee.
Leading with Purpose
“I lead with purpose by prioritizing the well-being of my patients in everything I do. Whether I am working directly with patients or collaborating with colleagues, my focus is on achieving positive outcomes and ensuring that every decision aligns with the best interests of my patients,” explained Dee.
“The quality initiatives that Ayra has proposed, along with her enthusiasm for creating a safer environment for both patients and staff, have a significant impact,” said Eusebio.
In 2023, Ayra served on the pediatric committee, where she played a key role in the Pediatric Medication Safety initiative and the successful implementation of our Pediatric Asthma Protocol. “I provided training to the staff on how to assess asthma severity using the Pediatric Asthma score and on the proper application of the protocol,” said Dee. “This led to accurate assessments for our patients.”
Delivering Care Excellence
“I take some time to think about why I became a nurse and how my work aligns with what truly matters to me. When I connect with my ‘why,’ I show up with passion, energy, and commitment, which makes a real difference in the care I give my patients,” shared Dee.
“I’ll never forget the day Ayra cared for two critically ill patients while our emergency department was bustling with activity. The place was packed, with patients filling every corner and inpatients waiting for longer-term placements,” said Eusebio.
“That day, we hit our highest score on the National Emergency Department Overcrowding Scale (NEDOCS),” Eusebio recalled. “Despite all the chaos, Ayra didn’t let the challenges stop her. She stayed calm, focused, and dedicated, providing exceptional care while guiding the department through a challenging situation.”
“Ayra is an extraordinary nurse and an everyday hero. What matters most to her is ensuring she does not harm and, ultimately, saving and making a positive difference in her patients’ lives,” emphasized Eusebio.