PLATTSBURGH — A hospital stay can be frightening. Patients are often in pain, worried about what comes next and far from the comfort of home.
For many patients on R6 at University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, resident nurse Christina Rumyantseva helps ease those fears.
Colleagues say that with a calm presence and a listening ear, Rumyantseva has earned a reputation for making patients feel safe, supported and understood during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Whether she is helping a patient navigate a new diagnosis, answering questions late in a shift or simply sitting at the bedside to listen, she approaches every interaction with the same goal: treating people with dignity and compassion.
“Among the many dedicated nurses on our unit, Christina stands out as someone who truly embodies the spirit and purpose of nursing,” Erica Brooks, nurse manager of R6, said in a press release.
“Patients, families and staff repeatedly mention her when they talk about care that goes above and beyond.”
For over nine years, Rumyantseva has cared for patients on the medical-surgical unit. Colleagues know her as someone who arrives early, prepares thoroughly and never stops looking for ways to improve a patient’s experience.
Brooks said consistency is one of the qualities that defines Rumyantseva’s approach to nursing.
“Her peers often describe her as someone who is always working,” Brooks said. “That isn’t because she stays busy. It’s because she feels deeply responsible for every patient entrusted to her care.”
One patient, who has spent years receiving medical care for chronic health issues, offered praise that left a lasting impression.
“Christina Rumyantseva was the best nurse I’ve ever had, truly,” the patient wrote in a survey she was sent following her care. “I’ve been going to hospitals due to my health problems since I was 12, seeing doctors nearly weekly. Words cannot describe how much she helped me emotionally the first few days.”
For Brooks, feedback like that is not unusual.
“Her patients feel seen and valued,” Brooks said. “She forms genuine connections during moments of fear, pain and uncertainty. She doesn’t just care for their medical needs. She cares for the person.”
She added Rumyantseva serves as a steady presence for her colleagues, leading by example, supporting teamwork and willingly sharing her knowledge with others.
Because of her commitment to patients and the nursing profession, Rumyantseva was recently recognized with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.
She received the honor during a surprise ceremony attended by colleagues and hospital leaders. During the award presentation, Rumyantseva received a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse.
Like all honorees, she also received a DAISY Award pin and a sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-cared by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe.