Amy Hernandez’s kindness made this patient feel like “family”

Hernandez, a patient care assistant on Methodist 5S, recently won a TULIP Award for the impact she made on a patient.

As a patient care assistant on 5S at IU Health Methodist Hospital, Amy Hernandez juggles a wide variety of tasks for her patients—from getting them cleaned up to helping them order food and eat. And as described by a recent patient, Hernandez’s care goes far beyond just doing the job.

“Amy is a very compassionate, caring individual who goes above and beyond for her patients,” this patient recalls. “She made me feel like I was her family member with exceptional care and attention to detail she gave. I did not feel like I was just a job or task she needed to complete, but a person she genuinely cared for and wanted the best outcome for.”

Hernandez’s compassion and kindness shined through every action she completed. And since Hernandez knew this patient was having a hard time, she made a point of checking on this patient. “She gives the best baths. She made my life very pleasant through a very difficult time,” the patient says. “I lost my husband during this hospitalization, and she often checked in on me physically and emotionally, offering to sit with me even in her free time.”

When the patient asked Hernandez for some favorite comfort foods, including a baked potato, Hernandez went out of her way to get the closest meal she could find for this patient. “I will never forget her,” the patient said. “I will remember her every time I eat a baked potato and the exceptional care she provided.”

This patient took the time to nominate Hernandez for a TULIP Award. TULIP awards are presented bi-monthly at the IU Health adult academic health center to a support staff team member who demonstrates the IU Health values. Last month, Hernandez was the winner. She was surprised on her unit with a celebration, TULIP trophy and treats for the team.