The DAISY Award is meant to recognize both the clinical skills and the compassion of nurses. And Brianna had both of these in spades! She worked efficiently and confidently, performing tasks and teaching my dad. She took time with him and listened to him. I never felt like she was in a hurry to leave his room and she had him on the days when he was the sickest (and crankiest!). But what really makes her a DAISY Nurse was something she did on her day off, NOT while she was caring for my dad.
On Sunday when she left, she told Dad that she wouldn't see him again as she was off the next couple of days but had a meeting to attend tomorrow. And my jovial dad says, "Well you should stop in and see me tomorrow!" and Brianna said she would. And sure enough, after her meeting, she poked her head in ON HER DAY OFF, just to say hi and keep her promise. I am so glad she did too because she got to see a little different side of my dad that day. He had really turned the corner and was much more himself. I was glad she got to see a more strong person, the man I see every time I look at him. But not only that, she helped to keep my faith in the next generation of nurses!
I have been a nurse 25 years, and some days I fear for my care in old age because I feel like the human touch is missing from nursing. We seem to be stuck behind computers and answer to productivity matrixes. So, when I see a nurse like Brianna connect, care, and keep promises, I want to recognize that. Good Shepherd is lucky to have such a nurse. And, I am glad she drew the "short straw" to take care of my dad all weekend!