Two nurses at Duke University Hospital, Stephanie Vicino and Emily Albergotti, have forged a powerful friendship rooted in shared experiences and a deep commitment to compassionate patient care.

Stephanie and Emily first crossed paths in 2019 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic while supporting the Duke Health COVID Hotline. Despite the unknown and often isolating circumstances of the pandemic, their shared passion for nursing and their dedication to the community enabled them to quickly form a strong bond that has spanned years.

“Steph has been a major supporter of my goals and aspirations here at Duke, and I attribute some of my extrinsic motivation to her” says Albergotti.

Since then, the two nurses have continued to support each other, both personally and professionally, as they returned to care for patients at the bedside. Their friendship and the wider support system at Duke Health has helped both women to grow at Duke Health and to deliver the compassionate care for their patients that most have come to expect.

Stephanie embodies what it means to be a phenomenal nurse and human,” said Emily Albergotti, MSN, RN, CCRN, Clinical Nurse III.

Stephanie recalls a particularly challenging shift when Emily demonstrated exceptional compassion and dedication to her patients.

"She was so patient and understanding with the families," said Stephanie Vicino, RN, Clinical Nurse III. "She really took the time to connect with them on a personal level."

Vicino, who works in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), admires Albergotti's unwavering optimism and resilience, even in the face of adversity. Albergotti, a nurse in the Pediatric Cardiology Intensive Care Unit (PCICU), is inspired by Vicino's empathy and unwavering support.

Emily attributes her ability to provide compassionate care to the support she receives from her colleagues and leadership.

"Having that kind of support system really makes a difference," Emily said.

404.