Christine is the perfect example of what a nurse should be. It’s not difficult to find her consistently going above and beyond for patients and coworkers. Christine is kind, compassionate, and able to connect with anyone she encounters. She is a strong patient advocate, as well as a staff advocate. She is constantly smiling and saying hello to everyone, knows the names of anyone who frequents our unit, and never forgets to give a cheery “hello” to all. Her patients and their families request her again and again. She is capable of caring for the sickest patients in the entire hospital with grace and dignity.

Christine’s vast knowledge of the complexities of a cardiovascular patient is shared freely, serving as an exceptional resource to newer staff. She uses this knowledge to advocate for her patients’ needs early, recognizes acute changes in patient conditions, and notifies providers of any rapidly changing conditions. When her patients are very ill and unable to communicate, Christine explains to the family what is happening to their loved one in terms they understand and explains what we are doing to correct the variety of illnesses they are coping with. Her presence puts those around her at ease, and she is trusted by everyone lucky enough to work with her.

Our unit cares for some of the sickest patients in the hospital and Christine serves as a role model to these critically ill patients. Recently, we had a young patient who was placed on multiple life-saving devices with the hopes of receiving a heart transplant after stabilizing from his initial illness. He was fully dependent on these machines as well as a multitude of continuous med infusions. Unfortunately, he would not survive the transplant and it was no longer an option. The decision was made with him and his family to move him to comfort care and cease the life-sustaining equipment.

It was planned for the day after his 20th birthday. When Christine, who had cared for this patient several times heard this, she was determined to make his birthday the best she could. She arranged to have someone deliver his favorite cheeseburger and French fries for dinner and brought in a customized cake. She also learned what his favorite animated character was and got him balloons. He was able to share one last birthday with his family and find some comfort in his favorite foods. Knowing how much his nurses cared for him was very touching for this young man. He smiled with this surprise and had a peaceful, bittersweet night before saying his final goodbyes to his family. This is only one example of the many kind and selfless acts you can find Christine doing every single day. In both her work and personal life, she is a shining star who consistently puts others' needs before her own. Christine is an exceptional candidate to receive a DAISY Award, we hope that you can see this through her nomination. Thank you