Celebrating Nurse Excellence: The DAISY Award Winners
In healthcare, some moments of care are so profound they leave a lasting mark on patients and their families. These acts of extraordinary compassion and skill often happen quietly, away from the spotlight. The DAISY Award was created to shine a light on these moments and to honor the nurses who provide exceptional care.
What is the DAISY Award?
The DAISY Award is an international program that recognizes the extraordinary work nurses do for patients and families. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The award was established by the DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from complications of an autoimmune disease. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired them to create a unique way to say "thank you" to nurses everywhere.
This recognition is a patient- and family-focused award. Nominations come directly from those who have been touched by a nurse's clinical skill and, most importantly, their compassion. Winning a DAISY Award signifies that a nurse has gone above and beyond, providing, in addition to medical expertise, emotional support and human connection that make a true difference during a vulnerable time.
Jacqueline Brown, RN: Vigilance That Saves Lives
Jacqueline "Jackie" Brown, a PACU travel nurse with 26 years of experience across oncology, ICU/Trauma, and PACU, demonstrated the highest level of clinical excellence and intuition. While caring for a 73-year-old patient recovering from a routine procedure, she noticed a subtle irregular heart rhythm.
Though the patient was stable and denied any pain, Jacqueline trusted her clinical judgment. She went beyond standard protocol and proactively obtained a 12-lead EKG. The result was critical: atrial fibrillation with ST-segment elevation, indicating a potential heart attack. Jacqueline’s quick thinking led to the activation of a Heart Alert. The patient was rushed into a procedure that revealed a 100% coronary artery blockage, which was then treated. Her nominator noted that her actions, driven by compassion and expertise, were instrumental in recognizing a potentially fatal event and likely saved the patient's life.
Josephine Layo, Staff Nurse III, BSN, CCRN, nominated Jackie, remarking, "Jackie’s actions embody the highest standards of nursing. She is a role model for both new and experienced nurses and exemplifies the spirit of the DAISY Award."
Erica Price, RN: Compassion for Complex Needs
Erica Price, a PACU RN, was nominated for her exceptional care of a patient with highly complex pain management needs. Erica’s impact was felt across multiple departments as she masterfully coordinated with MRI, CT, and Anesthesia teams to ensure the patient received seamless care.
Her nominator praised her foresight in suggesting a PICC line, which proved crucial for managing the patient's pain throughout a lengthy hospitalization. More than her clinical coordination, it was Erica’s profound compassion that stood out. When the patient was in distress over a difficult bowel prep, Erica gently recommended an alternative, ensuring the patient felt supported and not alone. Her nominator, a physician, wrote, "I’m always in debt to your experience as a nurse as you continue to teach me." Erica’s actions show how compassionate care can transform a patient’s entire hospital experience.
Shea Schrader, Clinical Manager: Leadership with Heart
Shea Schrader, an ICU Clinical Manager, was honored for her leadership and compassion during a major labor disruption. In a high-stress environment, Shea showcased strength, empathy, and professionalism.
Her nominator described her as instrumental in de-escalating tense situations and troubleshooting complex challenges with calm precision. She ensured that patient safety was never compromised while simultaneously supporting her colleagues. Shea’s leadership was defined by her humanity: offering a listening ear, a reassuring presence, and comfort when it was needed most.
Her nominator shared, “The impact Shea made during this disruption will be remembered not only for her operational success but for the trust, comfort, and confidence that Shea instilled in her colleagues and clients.”
How You Can Recognize an Extraordinary Nurse
Have you or a loved one been touched by the care of a remarkable nurse? The DAISY Foundation makes it easy for you to share your story and nominate them for an award. Nominations typically require you to describe a specific situation where a nurse’s clinical skill or compassion made a significant difference.
Think about a time when a nurse:
- Made you feel safe and cared for.
- Anticipated your needs before you even had to ask.
- Explained information in a way you could understand.
- Showed exceptional empathy and kindness.
- Demonstrated outstanding clinical skill that led to a positive outcome.
Your nomination is a powerful way to express gratitude and ensure that exceptional nurses receive the recognition they truly deserve.
It isn't just patients and their families who can share these stories. Colleagues—whether a fellow nurse, a physician, or another member of the healthcare team—can also nominate a nurse who has demonstrated exceptional care, compassion, or skill. Sharing these moments from a professional perspective is a way to say, "thank you," and to make sure the nurse is seen.
Nominate a Deserving Nurse Today
The work of nurses like Jacqueline, Erica, and Shea has a ripple effect, inspiring colleagues and elevating the standard of care for all patients.
If an AMN Healthcare nurse has made a meaningful impact on your life or the life of a loved one, we invite you to share your story. To learn more about our partnership with the DAISY Foundation or to nominate a deserving nurse, please visit our nomination page: https://www.amnhealthcare.com/careers/nursing/daisy-award/
