During the care of a very critical patient in the Emergency Department, Amy showed exemplary nursing skills throughout the day, from stabilizing during the initial presentation via ambulance to complex and multifaceted medical problems. Then, transition to palliative care as the patient passed, after being in the emergency department for much of the shift. As the care progressed, she showed clear, concise communication skills, working as the liaison between the family and the doctor, offering her extensive medical knowledge in terms the family could clearly understand. She helped guide the family through the care being provided and the possible outcomes and walked them through the difficult decisions the family faced as it became clear that medical intervention was becoming futile, and the focus changed to comfort care. As the patient passed from this life, she remained at the bedside, answering questions from the family, helping keep the patient as comfortable as possible, and offering steady support as they journeyed through the valley of the shadow of death.

This patient interaction is only a reflection of the skillful, compassionate, whole-person care she provided every shift. Amy is a true DAISY Nurse.