A Homecoming for a Mount Sinai Nurse and COVID-19 Patient
For retired nurse Theresa Francisco, 69, the cardiac intensive care unit at The Mount Sinai Hospital means many things: it had been her workplace for nearly four decades, but also a place where she was cared for when she became critically ill with COVID-19 in 2020.
On Thursday, March 27, 2025, Ms. Francisco returned to the unit for the first time to reunite with the staff who saved her life. Accompanying her were her brother and sister-in-law—both of whom were also admitted to Mount Sinai for the treatment of COVID-19—and Cynthia Enrile, another Mount Sinai retired nurse who cared for Ms. Francisco during her hospitalization.
“I can still remember everything—being a nurse and being a patient,” said Ms. Francisco. When she was initially admitted to the unit, which had been converted to a COVID-19 response unit, she thought she would be discharged after a couple of days. Ms. Francisco ended up spending 42 days in the hospital, and was intubated for 10 of them.
Listen to Ms. Francisco recall her story, and read more about how she went from a Mount Sinai retired nurse to COVID-19 patient in a slideshow of her reunion at the intense care unit.
Theresa Francisco, retired Mount Sinai nurse, shares thoughts on visiting the same unit that treated her when she was hospitalized for COVID-19
Theresa Francisco, 69, who lives in Far Rockaway, Queens, had been a critical care nurse at The Mount Sinai Hospital for 38 years. She retired in January 2020.
On March 27, 2020, Ms. Francisco was hospitalized for COVID-19. She was admitted to the cardiac critical care unit—which was converted to a COVID-19 response unit during the pandemic—at The Mount Sinai Hospital, where she used to work.
Shortly after Ms. Francisco (center) was admitted, so were her brother (left) and sister-in-law (right), also for COVID-19.
Her sister-in-law was discharged after a week, and her brother was discharged after two weeks. Ms. Francisco spent 42 days in the hospital, and was intubated for 10 of them.
Francisco’s friend Cynthia Enrile (left) was a fellow nurse at the critical care unit and cared for Ms. Francisco (right) during her time there. Ms. Enrile retired in May 2020, after working at Mount Sinai since 1986.
On Easter Sunday, 2020, Ms. Francisco’s intubation tube was removed.
After her discharge, Ms. Francisco faced months of grueling recovery. She required high-flow oxygen for months and couldn’t walk.
Today, five years after being hospitalized for COVID-19, Ms. Francisco (left) is still feeling the aftereffects of the disease. She is living with cardiomyopathy and sees a Mount Sinai pulmonologist every six months for follow-up. Pulmonologist E Neil Schachter, MD (right), was part of her care team.
Reuniting with the Mount Sinai staff who saved her life was an emotional but grateful moment, said Ms. Francisco (right). Her tour was guided by Umesh Gidwani, MD (left), chief of the cardiac critical care unit and who cared for her during her hospitalization.
Nursing Certification is an important, independent validation of specialized nursing knowledge and expertise that meet or exceed professional standards. In fact, empirical evidence shows an association between nursing certification and better patient outcomes, as well as lower rates of falls, hospital-acquired infections, and central line-related bloodstream infections.
Across the Mount Sinai Health System, an impressive near 50 percent of nurses have earned board certification in their chosen specialties. Their patients, families, colleagues, and teams are the direct beneficiaries of nursing expertise that is recognized as meeting or exceeding the highest professional standards.
In recognition of National Certified Nurses Day, Wednesday, March 19, Mount Sinai would like to shine a spotlight on some of our nurses who have earned their specialty certification. Along with their fellow certified nurses, they represent a commitment to excellence and their profession that is synonymous with Mount Sinai Nursing.
I’m proud to be certified in Medical Surgical Nursing. I believed that obtaining certification demonstrates commitment and dedication to professional growth and maintaining the best evidence-based practices. Encouraging other nurses to become certified is something I truly believe in. It’s not just a title, it’s a commitment to excellence.
Emmy Lou C. Adonay, RN, BSN-BC, Mount Sinai Queens
Carla Alves-Miraldo, MS, MSN-Ed, RN, CHPN, KP6 Palliative Care Unit, The Mount Sinai Hospital
Becoming a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nurse is a reflection of my commitment to ensuring every patient receives comfort, dignity, and compassionate care during life’s most challenging moments. This certification is more than a title—it represents my dedication to guiding patients and families with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. I stand proud of my certification because it allows me to be a source of comfort, an advocate for quality of life, and ensure that no one faces their journey alone. Being a certified palliative care nurse is not just my profession—it is my passion and my purpose.
Obtaining and maintaining this certification provides me the opportunity to achieve professional and personal growth. Being a certified Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) validates and demonstrates my expertise in advanced knowledge and skills caring for critically ill patients while developing wisdom of practice in the critical care fields. This allows me to share my knowledge and skills to elevate the standard of patient care within the nursing units, as well as at the organizational level to promote patient outcomes in Mount Sinai.
Odeisha Maitland, DNP, FNP, RN-BC, Mount Sinai Brooklyn
Being a certified nurse is not just a title; it is a profound commitment to excellence in patient care and a testament to my dedication to ongoing professional development. Achieving certification demonstrates my expertise and the trust that patients and colleagues place in my abilities. It embodies my passion for delivering exceptional health care and my unwavering responsibility to uphold the highest standards of our profession. Ultimately, being a certified nurse is both an honor and a defining aspect of my identity in the health care field, empowering me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others every day.
As an ED nurse, you never know who’s going to walk through the door. All we can do is prepare and improve our practice. Being certified is just that; It means I stay ready and inspire my team to do the same.
Cynthia Mendez, RN, MSN, CEN, Senior Clinical Nurse, Department of Emergency Medicine, The Mount Sinai Hospital
Jay Rodriguez Reyes, RN, BSN, AMB-BC, Ambulatory
In the ever-evolving health care landscape, certification is not just a title but a commitment to excellence, professional growth, and improved patient outcomes. Earning certification in Ambulatory nursing validates our expertise, knowledge, and dedication to the highest standards of patient care. To those considering certification, take that step. Invest in yourself, in your patients, and in the future of the nursing profession. Because when we grow as professionals, everyone benefits.
Being a certified nurse at Mount Sinai represents a deep commitment to professional growth and ensuring the highest standard of care for my patients. It reflects my expertise and dedication, particularly in specialized fields like vascular access and infusion therapy. After 25 years at Mount Sinai, these certifications reinforce my passion for nursing and the responsibility I feel in continually advancing my skills to best serve those who rely on me.
Lynette Joy Romanovitch, BSN, RN, CRNI, VA-BC, Vascular Access Service RN, Institute for Critical Care Medicine, The Mount Sinai Hospital
Elvira Solis MSN, RN, CCRN, Mount Sinai Queens
Certification means a lot to me in different perspectives, although we will say it is a validation of my knowledge and skills and my practice, embodying excellence, lifelong learning, and commitment in excellence in care. As a Certified Critical Care Nurse, I am committed to so many duties and responsibilities. My commitment to providing excellence in care means I have an advance knowledge and skills to provide effective and safest care to my patients. I must ensure the excellence in practice is backed up with evidence-based. My commitment to life-long learning and professional development is not to myself alone but also to support my team through peer-to peer teaching onsite and online. I take pride of being a role model to my colleague and a “Go to Person” especially in some challenging cases and situations.
Being wound care certified fills me with pride because it reflects my commitment to providing the highest level of care to my patients. This certification represents my dedication to continuous learning and staying up to date with the latest techniques and best practices in wound healing. Knowing I can make a tangible difference in someone’s recovery, while ensuring their comfort and well-being, gives me a strong sense of purpose in my work.
Sylvia Springer-Fahie, RN-BC, DNP, MSN, BSN, WCC, The Mount Sinai Hospital
“Our teams think of AI as augmented intelligence, versus artificial intelligence,” says Robbie Freeman, DNP, RN, Vice President of Digital Experience and Chief Nursing Informatics Officer at the Mount Sinai Health System. “The goal is to leverage AI as a supportive tool to enhance clinical decision-making—not to replace it.”
He adds, “Risk assessment models and tools for guiding care have always been integral to nursing practice. By combining nursing expertise and critical thinking with the ability to analyze vast amounts of data, AI is transforming how we deliver care, elevating quality and safety to unprecedented levels. In the coming years, this technology will continue to support nursing practice by enabling the creation of highly targeted, personalized care plans for every patient.”
Shown from let: Eric Kim; Prem Timsina, ScD; Arianna Goldman; Dhaval Patel; Maria ‘Vickee’ Sevillano, RN; Kim-Anh-Nhi Nguyen, MSc; Robbie Freeman, DNP, RN; and Arash Kia, MD, MsC
“Every AI project starts with a working group,” says Dr. Freeman, “and that working group always includes the people who are delivering care. For example, if we’re working on a falls-related initiative, we sit down with front-line nurses, with geriatricians, with nurse leaders, and from day one we’re talking together about what might be helpful.”
Currently, Mount Sinai nurses are using a machine learning model that predicts which patients are most likely to fall while in the hospital. The data behind this tool largely came from examining electronic medical record (EMR) data. By combing through nursing notes using recognition algorithms, Mount Sinai also developed an AI tool to better identify which patients are at higher risk for becoming delirious while in the hospital so that tailored preventive interventions could be put in place at the earliest opportunity.
From left: Prem Timsina, ScD; David Reich, MD, Chief Clinical Officer, Mount Sinai Health System, and President of The Mount Sinai Hospital; Robbie Freeman; Matt Levin, MD, and Arash Kia, MD, MsC
Mount Sinai is leading the world in developing a variety of AI products that support nurses and keep patients safe, according to Dr. Freeman.
Another AI product came about when Maria ‘Vickee’ Sevillano, BSN, RN, CWCN, COCN, a Mount Sinai clinical nurse, proposed an idea focused on the prevention of pressure injuries, also known as bed sores.
“We embraced the idea, collaboratively explored its nuances through a co-design process, and partnered with our internal data scientists and software engineers to transform it into a fully realized product,” says Dr. Freeman. “We tested and fine-tuned it, and in early 2024 the idea brought forward was introduced to the clinical setting. This predictive software is currently embedded in our EMR at The Mount Sinai Hospital, and we hope to expand its use as we continue to evaluate the product.”
Mount Sinai has also done a lot of work with a new type of AI called large language models, which, among other tasks, can recognize and generate large amounts of text. One particular study involved examining nursing triage notes to identify predictors for which Emergency Department patients were likely to be admitted to the hospital.
“In many cases the nursing documentation can really power AI,” says Dr. Freeman. “Much of nursing documentation data reflects their expert observations and has predictive power. So, using things like natural language processing algorithms, the nursing observations and assessments are really helpful in the development of AI tools that have broader use and impact. ”Mount Sinai is also using AI to help reduce the amount of time nurses spend doing documentation by rolling out macros—a sequence of computer instructions to automate a task—and tools that can streamline the process and relieve the documentation burden.
Kim-Anh-Nhi Nguyen, MSc, left, and Maria ‘Vickee’ Sevillano, BSN, RN, CWCN, COCN
As this emerging field continues to grow, Dr. Freeman says it is important to note that Mount Sinai has governance in place to ensure there is a solid understanding of how these tools work, that they are safe, and that they are being used in ways that are ethical and sound before they are being used in patient care.
“There’s a science and methodology for ensuring AI products are used responsibly,” Dr. Freeman says. The shared decision-making structure plays a critical role. Mount Sinai is also part of the nonprofit Coalition for Health AI, which brings together a diverse array of stakeholders to drive the development, evaluation, and appropriate use of AI in health care.
“AI is here and has proven it holds promise for thoughtfully revolutionizing care delivery in ways never imagined,” he says.
Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing graduates attend commencement at The Stern Auditorium at The Mount Sinai Hospital on December 19, 2024.
On December 19, 2024, the Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing celebrated the graduation of 103 students of Cohort 12, the class of students who began their studies in September 2023. The Stern Auditorium at The Mount Sinai Hospital was filled to capacity with proud families and friends of the graduates and school faculty.
Beth Oliver, DNP, RN, FAAN, Chief Nurse Executive, Senior Vice President, Cardiac Services, while in transit, offered her congratulations virtually. She stated that nursing is a profession not just known for clinical skill but significant for the compassion, resilience, and dedication to the well-being of others. And she emphasized the importance of direct patient care.
“The bedside, or chairside, is where the essence of nursing comes alive. You may step into roles as educators, researchers, administrators, or leaders in the field of nursing. You will become the mentors, advocates, and champions for the next generation of nurses. But regardless of where your path takes you, always remember the foundation of your practice: bedside is the best side. Every role you take on will ultimately come back to that fundamental connection with the people you serve.”
Brendan Carr, MD, MA, MS, with Kimberly Glassman, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAONL, FAAN (left) and Vivian Lien, DNP, RN, CNE, Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Wellbeing and Clinical Associate Professor at the Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing
Brendan Carr, MD, MA, MS, Chief Executive Officer, Professor and Kenneth L. Davis, MD, Distinguished Chair, Mount Sinai Health System, spoke to the new graduates about their essential role in health care, how nurses make special connections not only to patients and patients’ families, but also to their colleagues.
“As a young physician, I learned that nurses are the engine of teamwork, especially with physician partners, because they understand the patient as a whole. You have a superpower.” He added that the graduates were very special to Mount Sinai and hoped they would continue as professional nurses in the Mount Sinai Health System.
Janet Green, Chair of the Board of the Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing, whose family was integral to the founding of the school, relayed congratulations, noting that nursing is a calling and “an integral part of patient health care.”
The Valedictorian, Jennifer Moffa, thanked her fellow classmates and faculty, giving them credit for her achievement. She added that it was “bittersweet” to complete her education at the Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing, but was thankful for “everlasting connections” and reminded her peers to “choose kindness.”
Before the recitation of the International Pledge for Nurses by the graduating class, and the flipping of their cap tassels from right to left, Kimberly Glassman, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, FAONL, FAAN, Dean, Mount Sinai Phillips School of Nursing, reiterated that there are diverse career paths open to the graduating class, saying, “the entire world is open to you.”
Zhanna Makoviy, RN, FAACM, is a case manager at Mount Sinai West, guiding patients smoothly from the Emergency Department to inpatient care. Marking her 10-year anniversary with the Mount Sinai Health System, Ms. Makoviy receives high praise from her leadership, colleagues, and patients. “Zhanna exemplifies the very best of our values and mission at Mount Sinai,” says Jose Francisco Morales, BSN, CCM, Assistant Director of Case Management at Mount Sinai West. “She has been a cornerstone of our case management and emergency departments, practicing with clinical expertise, a collaborative approach, and an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.”
Two patient caregivers expressed gratitude for Ms. Makoviy’s efforts. “I want to praise the actions and kindness of Ms. Makoviy,” one patient’s sister wrote. “She was so helpful as we moved my brother from the ED to a room. She was empathic, working with a fellow nurse to have the forms processed quickly. I owe her a deep debt of gratitude.” Another caregiver wrote, “My experience with Ms. Makoviy was wonderful. She is a shining beacon.”
Ms. Makoviy is committed to patient experience excellence, for all patients. “Every patient we encounter in the emergency room is not just a case, but a unique individual, deserving of compassionate care and meticulous attention,” she says. “As a case management nurse, I believe in the power of collaboration and advocacy, ensuring that each patient receives not only the immediate treatment they need, but also the resources and support necessary for their ongoing recovery. Our role is to bridge the gap between urgent medical needs and comprehensive care, upholding the highest standards of professionalism and empathy in every interaction. It is beautiful and fulfilling to see the positive impact a health provider’s dedication has on a patient’s journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this field.”
“The impact of Zhanna’s work extends beyond her clinical abilities,” says Mr. Morales, “for her humanity and compassion lead to profound impressions. Zhanna is a testament to how one person’s dedication to always go above and beyond can transform care experiences and create lasting positive outcomes for all involved.”
In the Your Voice Counts all-staff survey across our system, Mount Sinai nurses identified psychological safety as a common and pressing concern. A packed auditorium was treated to a deep dive into the topic recently at the Health System’s 2024 Annual Nursing Conference, “Empowering Teams: Building a Culture of Safety and Collaboration.” Highlights included a two-pronged keynote approach by nationally recognized experts in the field, a lively panel discussion, and a Q&A session.
The importance of the material was relayed via introductory remarks by senior Mount Sinai Heath System leaders Beth Oliver, DNP, RN, FAAN, Chief Nurse Executive and Senior Vice President, Cardiac Services; Brendan G. Carr, MD, MA, MS, Chief Executive Officer, Professor and Kenneth L. Davis, MD, Distinguished Chair; and David L. Reich, MD, Chief Clinical Officer and President, The Mount Sinai Hospital and Mount Sinai Queens.
Then, the two keynote speakers recognized Mount Sinai’s reputation as a leading health care organization and set their sights on the future: How to leverage that standing to ensure delivery of care that is stronger, better, always.
Amy Edmondson, PhD, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management, Harvard Business School, began with an engaging, no-nonsense, and at times humorous keynote, “Work Without Fear: Why Psychological Safety Matters for Safe High-Quality Care.” With a focus on work environments, she made the important point that psychological safety involves a healthy friction, creating a place where people feel comfortable pointing out mistakes to further the team’s goals. She went on to discuss key related elements:
How high standards and psychological safety go hand in hand
How various work environments function
How we as individuals deal with them
How we band together in teams to respond and excel
Thomas Lee, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Press Ganey, the patient-satisfaction survey firm—which also conducted Your Voice Counts for Mount Sinai—seamlessly picked up where Dr. Edmondson left off with his keynote, “How Do We Hard-Wire What Amy Thinks We Should Do?” He shifted the discussion from the organizational perspective to that of teams and individuals and how staff can work together to prevent errors. Dr. Lee particularly noted the concept of social capital and the importance of empowering team members to speak up if they see something out of place, and to innovate for improvement.
The two then joined Mount Sinai experts, including Pam Abner, MPA, CPXP, Senior Vice President, System Health Equity Officer, Chief Diversity Operations Officer, Mount Sinai Health System, Jonathan Nover, MBA, RN, Vice President of Nursing for Emergency Services, Mount Sinai Health System, and Beth Degen, RN, Senior Clinical Nurse, The Mount Sinai Hospital, for an engaging interdisciplinary panel discussion and Q&A session, moderated by Rebecca Anderson, MPH, Vice President of Strategy Operations, Office of the Chief Medical Officer. The overarching themes were about building inclusive, supportive care environments—setting the foundation for a safer, more unified health care future.
The conference was a practical, idea-packed day for clinicians looking to foster stronger teams and safer patient outcomes.
