“Reyzell cares for some of our most critically ill patients — such as people suffering from heart attacks and organ failure,” said Patrick Shane, Mendoza’s former manager and a Kaiser Permanente nurse manager.
An 11-year Kaiser Permanente employee, Reyzell Mendoza, BSN, RN, is a staff nurse II in the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU) at the Santa Clara Medical Center.
“She maintains a calm, steady presence that reassures both patients and families,” said Shane.
That reassurance is needed in the CVICU, where monitors, alarms, and life-support equipment surround families. Mendoza regularly pulls up a chair, explains what is happening, and answers questions. “I avoid medical jargon and explain things in simple, everyday language that families can easily understand,” said Mendoza.
The compassion, clinical expertise, and professionalism Mendoza shows her patients earned her a nomination from Shane and a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international honor recognizing nurses who provide exceptional patient care.
Proactive care at every step
“Even in highly stressful situations, Reyzell anticipates her patient’s needs and ensures they’re treated with respect and dignity,” said Shane.
“It’s important for nurses to stay one step ahead rather than react to issues as they arise,” said Mendoza. “Doing so helps patients recover safely and gives families confidence throughout the process.”
Before her first patient arrives, Mendoza has already reviewed their chart, studied test results, and planned the next phase of their care. She helps families understand recovery milestones and what to expect in the days ahead.
Never far from the bedside
Due to the severity of the conditions treated in the CVICU, nurses typically care for only one or two patients at a time.
“Some of my patients aren’t used to being in the hospital, so I let them know when I need to step away to care for another patient,” said Mendoza. “I check on them often and even seeing me walk by their room can be reassuring.”
“Whether it’s opening a curtain or simply stopping by to say hello, small check-ins help patients feel cared for and not alone,” she added.
Providing comfort when it matters most
“Reyzell advocates for comfort measures that make a meaningful difference,” explained Shane.
Earlier this year, she cared for a patient who was nearing the end of his life. After his wife told her he loved spiritual music, she filled his room with songs that comforted him. She also helped his wife arrange transportation to a mortuary, which was two hours away. “It was one less thing for her to worry about during an incredibly difficult time,” shared Mendoza.
Bringing your best self to every patient
“My mentor once told me, ‘Choose work you would do even if you weren’t getting paid.’ I’ve always enjoyed spending time with older adults, which inspired me to become a caregiver while working toward a nursing career,” said Mendoza.
“Receiving a DAISY Award is incredibly meaningful because it reinforces that I’m doing what I’m meant to do — caring for others,” she added.
To recharge, Mendoza takes 10-minute walks, meditates, and spends time with family.
“The energy you bring to work impacts your patients, so make sure to take care of yourself,” shared Mendoza.