August 2025
Colleen
Neece
,
BSN, RN
PACU
Seattle Children's Hospital
Seattle
,
WA
United States
She was able to calmly complete her assessment ahead of schedule, all while helping the patient remain regulated and avoiding any behavioral escalation
We would like to nominate Colleen Neece for the DAISY Award in recognition of her extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and emotional intelligence during a particularly challenging patient interaction.
Colleen was the assigned preop nurse for a behaviorally complex patient with autism and developmental delay, known to have violent outbursts and a strong tendency to flee when anxious or overwhelmed. Preparing for his hospital admission required careful coordination to ensure the safety of both the patient and staff while minimizing distress.
What stood out immediately was Colleen’s proactive approach. She had read ahead on the patient’s history and anticipated the unique needs this situation would demand. Understanding the potential for escalation, she advocated for the patient and his mother to be relocated to a quieter preoperative area—away from the typical hustle and noise that can be overwhelming. She was able to calmly complete her assessment ahead of schedule, all while helping the patient remain regulated and avoiding any behavioral escalation—a feat that, in this context, speaks volumes about her empathy and skill.
Colleen also ensured that all necessary safety measures were in place, including contacting the behavioral support team well in advance. When it became clear that the patient would require intramuscular ketamine to transition safely to the operative space, the process was carried out flawlessly, thanks to her meticulous planning and calm leadership.
The patient’s mother expressed deep gratitude, praising the professionalism and seamless coordination of the entire team. Most importantly, the patient was able to complete his dental procedure without any incidents and was safely discharged home, free of behavioral crises—a best-case scenario made possible by Colleen’s care and commitment.
This is just one of many examples where Colleen’s kindness, foresight, and emotional intelligence lead to the best possible outcomes in even the most challenging situations. Her presence brings a sense of calm and confidence to patients, families, and staff alike. It’s nurses like Colleen who make the extraordinary seem routine, and who embody the very spirit of the DAISY Award.
Colleen was the assigned preop nurse for a behaviorally complex patient with autism and developmental delay, known to have violent outbursts and a strong tendency to flee when anxious or overwhelmed. Preparing for his hospital admission required careful coordination to ensure the safety of both the patient and staff while minimizing distress.
What stood out immediately was Colleen’s proactive approach. She had read ahead on the patient’s history and anticipated the unique needs this situation would demand. Understanding the potential for escalation, she advocated for the patient and his mother to be relocated to a quieter preoperative area—away from the typical hustle and noise that can be overwhelming. She was able to calmly complete her assessment ahead of schedule, all while helping the patient remain regulated and avoiding any behavioral escalation—a feat that, in this context, speaks volumes about her empathy and skill.
Colleen also ensured that all necessary safety measures were in place, including contacting the behavioral support team well in advance. When it became clear that the patient would require intramuscular ketamine to transition safely to the operative space, the process was carried out flawlessly, thanks to her meticulous planning and calm leadership.
The patient’s mother expressed deep gratitude, praising the professionalism and seamless coordination of the entire team. Most importantly, the patient was able to complete his dental procedure without any incidents and was safely discharged home, free of behavioral crises—a best-case scenario made possible by Colleen’s care and commitment.
This is just one of many examples where Colleen’s kindness, foresight, and emotional intelligence lead to the best possible outcomes in even the most challenging situations. Her presence brings a sense of calm and confidence to patients, families, and staff alike. It’s nurses like Colleen who make the extraordinary seem routine, and who embody the very spirit of the DAISY Award.