Juan Mesa has been part of the Memorial Healthcare System for 24 years, working as both a nurse and respiratory therapist, but it’s his current position in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) that he calls his ‘dream job.’
“The babies are super critical,” said Mesa about micro preemies that can be born to mothers that are only six months pregnant and weigh as little as 500 grams. “It’s rewarding that after they leave I can follow their progress in a Facebook group and know I helped that child and family.”
While the patient bonds are strong, Mesa is also an asset to his fellow nurses and NICU leadership. His roles include transport nurse, preceptor for the highest level of competencies, educator, charge and resource nurse. “Juan is the first one to stand up to present opportunities for improvement and the first one to volunteer to be part of the solution,” said NICU Director Janessa Alonso. “His years of experience, strong work ethic, and commitment to patient safety make him an invaluable team member and an absolute pleasure to work with.”
