Leading with Compassion: Melissa Del Rio-Valdes, BSN, RN, SANE Coordinator at HCA Florida Kendall Hospital
Championing Survivors with Expertise and Compassion in Sexual Assault Care
Miami, Florida – HCA Florida Kendall Hospital is proud to announce the continued leadership of Melissa Del Rio-Valdes, BSN, RN, as the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Coordinator. With over 18 years of dedicated experience in the healthcare field, Melissa has become an invaluable asset to the hospital and the community it serves.
Melissa’s journey in healthcare began in 2007 when she joined HCA Florida Kendall Hospital as a Unit Secretary. Her passion for patient care propelled her to pursue a nursing career, and she transitioned into the role of an ER Nurse & Trauma Resuscitation Specialist from October 2013 to August 2017. During this time, she honed her skills in high-pressure environments, providing critical care to patients in their most vulnerable moments.
In 2017, Melissa took on a new challenge as a Registered Nurse in the Outpatient Burn, Wound Care & Reconstructive Surgery Unit. For nearly five and a half years, she provided specialized care for patients requiring burn and wound management, demonstrating her commitment to excellence and empathy in her practice.
In February 2023, Melissa was promoted to the role of SANE Coordinator, positioning her at the forefront of a crucial and often underrepresented area of healthcare. In this capacity, Melissa plays a pivotal role in providing expert care and support to survivors of sexual assault. She is dedicated to ensuring that each survivor receives compassionate, trauma-informed care, creating a safe environment for healing.
Melissa’s educational background is as impressive as her professional experience. After graduating from Coral Reef Senior High School, she pursued her nursing education at Miami Dade College, where she became a registered nurse in 2013. She furthered her education by earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2017 and is currently enrolled in the Master of Science in Nursing in Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program, with an expected graduation date in December 2026, from Barry University in Miami Shores.
As a leader in forensic nursing, Melissa is passionate about advocating for sexual assault survivors and upholding the highest standards of care within Miami-Dade County. “The most rewarding aspect of my work is witnessing the recovery and improvement of my patients,” she shares. “I am deeply committed to helping those in need and ensuring that they receive the care and support they deserve.”
Learn More about Melissa Del Rio-Valdes:
Through her online profile, https://todaysnurse.org/nurse/4149780
