We nominate Chris Clayton for The Daisy Award. In her role as nurse practitioner, Chris partners with patients, families and staff in the delivery of safe, reliable person centered care. She has been a powerful advocate for the role of the nurse practitioner in patient care. One example is that she paved the way for the role of NPs and PAs in cardiac stress testing. In her role as professional nurse, Chris is an extraordinary team member and has long been the "go-to person" for many new initiatives and accreditations such as Magnet, Chest Pain and Atrial Fibrillation. Her depth and breadth of knowledge is phenomenal. Chris has been an invaluable asset in framing and guiding the evolution of professional nursing practice at SMC. She is a quiet but very influential leader.

Chris is an invaluable nurse practitioner at Sanford Medical Center in many ways. One example is her work with cardiology. Dr. P's team testifies that Chris is amazing support for them, including that she is always willing to step in and assist with rounding or doing stress tests.

The nursing staff for Drs S and P submitted the following example of Chris' willingness to go beyond usual expectations.

"A patient was in the stress lab with chest pain. Dr. S was in a procedure. Chris went down to assess the patient. Her knowledge and willingness to help, without hesitation, makes her a valuable asset and team member. She is always willing to teach/educate patients and our nursing staff too. Her professional, approachable and sweet demeanor is always a joy to be around."

Chris is highly regarded by the entire interdisciplinary community. She has been an invaluable asset to patient centered care as well as the professional nursing practice and health care in general and is highly deserving of the very valued DAISY Award.