Four Pipeline Health nurses were honored this month with the prestigious DAISY Award recognizing their deep caring and compassion for the patients they serve. The following information describes each winner along with comments from the nominations received.
Community Hospital of Huntington Park: Josefina Hernandez, LVN
Josefina Hernandez, LVN, Emergency Department, received her DAISY Award July 10. She joined Community Hospital of Huntington Park in 1986. Hernandez received five nominations.
“Josie goes above and beyond for her patients. She takes care of each one like they are family. I have witnessed her advocating for patients with doctors if any orders are questionable.”
“Josie took wonderful care of my father. She brought such a calm presence and a genuine sense of compassion that immediately made both my father and our family feel seen, heard and safe. She explained every step of the process, comforted my father when he was anxious and even offered words of reassurance to me when I felt overwhelmed. Josie will always be part of our story, and I hope she knows what a powerful impact she had on me and my father.”
“I have known Josie for almost 20 years. She is a compassionate nurse. One day she had a patient who was a transient. She cleaned him and actually shaved him and cut his hair. He looked like a different person. She loves her job and goes the extra mile.”
East Los Angeles Doctors Hospital: Calvin Chen, RN
Calvin Chen, RN, Telemetry Unit, received the DAISY Award July 17—after being with Pipeline for only seven months. He joined the nursing team as a new graduate in December 2024.
“Calvin, I want to thank you for helping me all the time I was in the hospital. You made me think that whatever you decide to be in your life, you will achieve it because you love what you do. I see a future doctor in you. You are an excellent person. For me, God bless your path in life. Thank you for considering me your friend.
Memorial Hospital of Gardena: Robert Telomen, RN
Rodney Telomen, RN, Med/Surg Unit, received the DAISY Award July 15. He joined Pipeline in December 2024.
“Nurse Rodney was extraordinary! My mom was in the hospital for a couple of days after a surgery. Rodney was very helpful with anything my mom needed from pain medication to blankets. He followed up with us and attended with such care and was thorough. He always made sure we were informed of the doctors’ guidance. His subtle and very welcomed humor always brightened our day and moment.”
Coast Plaza Hospital: Sandy “Zenny” Ortega, RN
Sandy “Zenny” Ortega, RN, received the DAISY Award July 18. She joined the Coast Plaza team in February 2017 and works on the MedSurg/Tele Unit.
“I had an anxiety attack where I was short of breath, hot and uncomfortable. Sandy helped me feel better. She calmed me down and put cold towels on my forehead, chest and provided a warm drink. She was patient with me until I was calm and could take medicine. Please give the DAISY Award to Mrs. Ortega for being an extraordinary nurse.”
7.23.2025