The post-anesthesia care and procedure and treatment unit (PACU/PTU) presents an inherently complex environment: a high-traffic, transitional zone where patients, ranging from critically ill to those in stable condition, recover from anesthesia and receive intensive post-surgical monitoring. All patients undergoing invasive procedures or surgeries —and their families— experience significant stress. In this dynamic and demanding environment, Luigi is a bedrock of calm. His exceptional ability to collaborate seamlessly across care disciplines,effectively communicating with physicians, lab, radiology, pharmacy, and downstream post-operative units, has made him a transformative leader among his fellow nurses.

Luigi brings thoughtful decision-making to high-pressure moments with many moving parts. He coordinates patient transfers to other units, adjusts staffing levels and skill mix, and weighs in on changes to surgery schedules when patient conditions change, new cases are added or procedures run long due to complications —all to ensure that  every patient receives safe and timely care. Colleagues trust him to make the best decisions that will benefit everyone, especially his patients. He goes out of his way to celebrate the accomplishments of the nurses who work with him and has established multiple ways for their suggestions to be heard and implemented. His leadership style makes it possible for each nurse to provide their very best care, and take pride in their unit and performance. 

Luigi has a holistic approach to patient care and prioritizes his patients’ comfort. He advocated for more frequent and structured physician rounding to improve pain management and help patients feel empowered in their care plan. He has secured iPads for patients so they can video chat with their loved ones or distract themselves with a movie. Knowing how important sleep is for healing, he introduced sleep hygiene kits with earplugs and comfort items. Coworkers say that his commitment to his patients’ overall wellbeing, and to his colleagues’ success, is inspirational.