Webster's definition of a nurse is "one who brings up, rears, causes to grow, trains, fosters or the like and compassion as "the humane quality of understanding the suffering of others and wanting to do something about it." Beth Paczewski , RN is that nurse who demonstrates those qualities in the workplace for our patients and staff each day she enters the doors of SFMC.

Beth transferred from SMH Preadmission Testing (PAT) to SFMC approximately two years ago. Ambivalent about the transfer, she had outstanding work relationships and was well respected by her peers in her former position. Logistically, the transfer to SFMC PAT was an opportunity to continue her role as staff RN in PAT within the BonSecours Health System. SFMC was closer to her residence and a plus for both her family responsibilities and basic economics.

I had the privilege to be Beth's preceptor when she made the decision to transfer to SFMC in December 2010. Beth was the first to complete the ASPAN CBO (American Society of Perianesthesia Nursing Competency Based Orientation) developed specifically for the PAT Department. Early in her orientation, Beth demonstrated strong Perianesthesia knowledge, strong critical thinking skills, and the importance of patient advocacy and safety. Her autonomy and confidence in decision making and developing a plan of care for the patient preparing for a surgical experience was evident.

One of Beth's many strengths is quickly building interpersonal relationships both with patients, families, and staff. Interpersonal skills are hard to teach. Her strong family values and a commitment to sound work ethics is evident by her consistent professional and compassionate demeanor every day. Beth is well respected and has received countless compliments from her patients and other professional staff. Within less than a year after her transfer from SMH to SFMC, Beth was promoted to the PAT Supervisor. This was a natural professional advancement for her; Beth is a leader hands down. Leadership roles are sometimes thankless, however Beth's self assurance as a mother, nurse, coworker, and supervisor are all an affirmation of who she is as a person first and nurse leader naturally following.

In less than one year as the PAT Supervisor, the Gallup Scores for PAT soared to a 4.95, this Gallup Score was no accident. Beth has been the leader who builds cohesiveness in our team, nurtures our ideas so we may grow and celebrates the accomplishments we have achieved. Regardless of challenges, Beth advocates for the PAT staff and patient care never jeopardizing her integrity. Her internal drive to be the best leader is exemplary and refreshing in our current challenging Healthcare environment. Beth is a good listener. She has the ability to nurture positives and is fair, honest, and mindful when making a decision. Thank you Beth for being the daily role model for the BonSecours Missions and Values; most importantly, you have the courage to do the right thing for both the patients and staff you lead.

There are few, but Beth Paczewski is the DAISY Award Recipient that would proudly be honored and recognized by its founder J. Patrick Barnes' family.