With per-medications and anesthesia, the OR team is often only vaguely remembered by patients, at best. OR nurses are patients' advocates, their voice and protectors when they cannot speak for themselves. One such nurse is Barbara Callahan. In the time I have worked with her, I have seen Barbara demonstrate daily all of the elements which make her the perfect candidate to receive the DAISY Award. She exhibits exemplary nursing practice and compassionate care, individualizing and tailoring her approach to bring calm comfort and the best possible outcome to each patient. Barbara consistently goes above and beyond-not only for patients and families, for our surgeons, assistants and ancillary staff, but for her fellow nurses.

Recently, she remained on call for a delayed case well beyond when she could have gone home. Having developed an empathetic and caring rapport with the anxious patient and family, she stayed, maintaining that trust, providing continuity of care and facilitating clear, effective communication between all members of the surgical team, including the surgeon, anesthesia, and pre op and PACU staff.

This is just one small example of her commitment to excellence to her patients and her peers-always focused on giving her all. Barbara is a resource and mentor-If a fellow nurse has a question or need, she will have an answer or do her best to find one- to troubleshoot, thinking critically and creatively. She sits on several nursing committees and is involved in associations which foster and further the profession and face of nursing.

With over 30 years as a nurse she continues to give her best each day, making a positive lasting impact in the lives of those she touches. She deserves to be recognized and commended.