David Rausch

Dave Rausch exemplifies truly "super-human work" done everyday. While I believe some DAISY nominations are catalyzed by specific events, this nomination is a result of the repeatedly exceptional daily care that this RN gives to the CHP ED. First, he is a servant-leader. Dave is always working with the best interest of the patient in mind, putting other’s interests above his own. He is willing to help out with any task. I have often seen him doing things that are not in his job description - helping turn a room over, transporting a patient or helping a new medical student find his way around the ED.

Dave is particularly and unusually supportive of physician trainees (residents and medical students) who are learning and often unsure of themselves. He is always instructive and never critical. Residents repeatedly mention that they enjoy working with him and find him a good teacher and advocate. Dave is persistently cheerful and hard working. He always has a smile on his face no matter what the patient census, no matter how many difficult parents are present or how sick the red room patients are. His enthusiasm and work ethic are infectious and motivating.

Several months ago, I was caring for a patient who came in for breakthough seizures. The “eval complete” was up but as the patient was about to leave the ED, the patient had an additional seizure. The patient ended up being intubated in the ER and going to the ICU. The intubation and ICU transfer were exceptionally smooth because Dave immediately got involved in the patient care, mobilized a team of staff to draw up meds, and encouraged and modeled closed loop communication.

Finally, Dave encourages and models team work. He knows how to make suggestions without offending others, knows how to correct without being judgmental and how to control situations in a quiet and discrete way. This interpersonal discernment and wisdom is a rare quality and one that enhances his interactions with staff on a daily basis. In summary, Dave is an exemplary care provider and has my highest recommendation for the DAISY Award.