Vincent Moya, Lompoc Valley Medical Center telemetry technician, was recognized as a BEE award recipient for his dedication, empathy and teamwork in the Critical Care Unit.
The BEE awards recognize Lompoc Valley Medical Center (LVMC), Comprehensive Care Center or Lompoc Health staff for “Being Exceptional Everyday.”
The award honors the exceptional skills and daily compassion given to patients by non-Registered Nursing staff.
The award was presented to Moya during a surprise ceremony Wednesday at the acute hospital.
“Oh, that’s nice,” he exclaimed when he was named as the winner.
A native of upstate New York, Moya grew up in the community and attended Lompoc High School. He was nominated by his colleagues.
“He goes above and beyond to help the nursing staff and patients,” the nomination stated. “He is kind, compassionate, funny and always willing to lend a helping hand.
“He anticipates the needs of nursing staff in critical situations to ensure emergencies run smoothly. Without being asked, he’s right there preparing equipment, ensuring smooth communication and helping the process go as efficiently and safely as possible.”
In his role, Moya must watch and record the electrical activity of patients’ hearts, using specialized monitoring equipment.
He tracks live heart rhythms from his computer station, spotting dangerous arrhythmias, performing EKG tests and alerting nurses or physicians when a patient’s heart pattern becomes life threatening.
Moya started work at the hospital 14 years ago as a part-time Emergency Department tech. He has also been a paramedic since 1983. That career, as well as being a telemetry tech, suit him, he said.
“I enjoy running toward the chaos,” he said.
As a telemetry tech, Moya said he appreciates being able to take an active role with critical care patients. When he observes the telemetry readings of a patient, Moya said he doesn’t just take what he sees at face value.
“I like the challenge,” Moya said about his job. “With EKGs, I like being able to interpret, investigate and evaluate.”
He said he likes being able to make a difference, “even though I’m just looking at EKGs.”
“You’re saving lives,” a coworker said in response to Moya’s comment.
The BEE Award honors patient care by non-Registered Nursing staff who assist a nurse or a patient and their family by delivering excellent patient care.
Non-nursing staff can include registration staff, patient financial services, Environmental Services, Information Services, Health Information Management, Dietary.
Staff may be nominated by anyone for a BEE award by filling out the form here. Submissions may also be emailed to beeaward@lompocvmc.com.