Beth Napiorkowski, RN

Six weeks after giving birth to my son, I was readmitted to the hospital for postpartum health issues. Having a new baby at home, this was my first time being alone as a patient in the emergency department. I was, of course, scared for myself but also separated from my baby for the first time since he was born. While waiting for my workup and eventual admission, I was so lucky to have Beth as my nurse in the ED. Despite a very busy shift in an overflowing department, she took the time to sit with me and talk me through the anxieties of being a new parent and being away from my baby. Her calming presence in what felt like a whirlwind was exactly what I needed to be able to take a breath. She closely monitored me, updating me on the plan as soon as she learned new information, and reassured me that everything would be just fine. I truly believe that having Beth as my nurse that night made a significant impact on the entire admission because by the time I got to my room on the floor that night, my anxieties had been eased. In a time when I had originally felt terrified and alone, I felt so cared for as a patient and a person, and I am so grateful to have had Beth to get me through.
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I am honored to nominate Beth Napiorkowski, RN for a DAISY Award. Simply put, Beth is the kind of nurse who defines what patient advocacy should look like, not just in words, but in every action she takes.

Beth is one of the main reasons I chose to join the night shift in the Emergency Department. From the very beginning, she stood out to me not just as an exceptional nurse but as someone who truly understands what it means to advocate for patients, families, and the department as a whole. She was the first nurse I saw who genuinely and consistently used her voice to ensure patients were heard and cared for. Working in the Emergency Department on nights often means caring for a high volume of patients with limited resources. It is not uncommon for us to be boarding 40 patients, with many receiving care in hallways. In the middle of that chaos, Beth never loses sight of what matters most: the human side of care. She ensures every patient is treated with dignity, compassion, and respect, no matter the circumstances.

Beth is incredibly knowledgeable and a strong critical thinker. She understands not only our department, but how the entire hospital flows, and she uses that insight to advocate effectively for her patients. She is a voice of reason and a steady, fierce leader, someone her colleagues trust and rely on during the most challenging moments. Beth’s knowledge and clinical judgment are exceptional, but what truly sets her apart is her compassion. Even on the busiest nights, she finds time for the small, meaningful acts that make a lasting difference. Whether it’s sitting with a worried family member or bringing them a cup of tea during a stressful moment, she never overlooks the human side of care. She approaches every situation with both a critical mind and a compassionate heart.
Beth also brings an incredible sense of humor to our team. On nights that could easily feel overwhelming, she finds ways to make people smile and lift the spirits of those around her. That ability to balance excellence, empathy, and humor is a rare and powerful gift.
Beyond her role as a nurse, Beth is an amazing colleague and friend. She shows up for everyone. She supports everyone, builds others up, checks in when we're all struggling and drowning together. She fosters a sense of connection that goes beyond the bedside, whether through her encouragement, her presence, her quick wit or even her delicious homemade sweet treats. Beth has made me a better nurse. Watching her advocate, lead, and care for others has shaped how I practice every day. She sets a standard that inspires everyone around her to be more compassionate, more thoughtful, and more patient-centered. She embodies what it means to advocate fiercely and selflessly for others.

If we all carried even a fraction of Beth’s compassion, Crouse Hospital, our healthcare system, and our world would be a better place. Beth will always put her patients first. She gives them a voice, protects their dignity, and ensures they are truly seen and cared for.
I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition than Beth.