April Cowie
October 2025
April
Cowie
,
BSN, RN, CPN
4 East Medical & MBU
Rady Children's Hospital - San Diego
San Diego
,
CA
United States

 

 

 

April has also been at the forefront of coordinating multiple complex patient multidisciplinary meetings, debriefings, and reviews, as well as unit support for staff.
We are honored to nominate April for the Nurse Leader DAISY Award for the impact that she has had on the 4 East Medical/MBU unit since she transitioned into the role. From the beginning, April has striven to take every opportunity to deepen her knowledge of the vast population of patients our unit serves, as well as to make herself approachable. This was showcased in her time shadowing our t/v and complex patients on multiple occasions. Not only did she shadow our bedside staff, but she also ensured she was hands-on during her shift and engaged with staff to determine how best to support our unit.

Over the last year, April has inspired, supported, and guided her staff in delivering high-quality care and promoting a cohesive, highly engaged environment. April is the liaison for our Soul committee, which has been incredible with building team dynamics on such a large unit. She is committed to retention, recognition, and process improvements. April has also been at the forefront of coordinating multiple complex patient multidisciplinary meetings, debriefings, and reviews, as well as unit support for staff. April leads with an unwavering commitment to patient care and staff well-being. On multiple occasions, April can be seen arriving at the unit at 8 am and not leaving until 8 pm because her desire to be available to her unit goes above and beyond, and her dedication to excellence and being solution-driven is always evident. Her door is always open, and she values getting to know her staff. April also regularly recognizes staff efforts, whether with a simple thank-you or by nominating others for awards. This acknowledgment has helped boost morale and make each team member feel valued, especially when faced with adversity. Such acknowledgment has been extended not only to our nursing team but also to EVS, child life, social work, and RT groups.

Just this month, she put together a coffee bar to show appreciation to all the people who keep our unit running smoothly. She also ensured she was present and led an informative U-bed for our new grads. April, we will forever be grateful for you, as you have the unique ability to leave with both heart and strategy, balancing clinical excellence with genuine care for the people around you. You are not just a manager, you are a mentor, a role model, and a source of strength for the entire team. We all cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.