I would like to recognize Alana Bunting for the exceptional care, compassion, and professionalism she demonstrated during a highly challenging situation on the stepdown unit. Alana was caring for a patient with severe disabilities who was unable to advocate for himself. His mother was acting as his primary advocate, and while her intentions were deeply rooted in love and concern, they were also creating barriers in implementing essential safety and security measures — particularly around medication storage and administration.

Alana collaborated with me to create a plan that would both reassure the patient’s mother and uphold our necessary safety protocols. When we entered the room to speak with the family and administer the medications, I witnessed something extraordinary. Under a great deal of pressure and emotional intensity, Alana demonstrated unwavering empathy, compassion, and patience. She validated the mother’s concerns, treated the patient with incredible gentleness, and shared her own personal story — connecting on a human level that defused the tension in the room. Slowly, the mother began to open up and relax. Throughout it all, Alana never lost sight of her clinical responsibilities or her role as a mentor. She was simultaneously orienting a new nurse.

Alana made a difference that day — not only to a vulnerable patient and a worried mother, but also to her peers and the future generation of nurses. She embodies what it means to be a DAISY Nurse: compassionate, skilled, resilient, and human. I was truly impressed by her ability to balance empathy with safety and professionalism under pressure.