May 2023
Crystal
Keene
,
RN
ICU
Mease Dunedin Hospital- BayCare Health System
Dunedin
,
FL
United States
She would then print a copy of the photograph and provide it to the patient’s family as a peaceful memory that helped them cope with their loss.
I have known Crystal for over 7 years and in that time have gained so much knowledge. I can think of no better person on our unit to receive this award. She came to the unit as a PST, working on the floor alongside the RN staff assisting with all levels of care. She functioned as a monitor tech and unit secretary, displaying a high level of competency and willingness to participate in the unit's daily activities. All this time, she was a full-time student working toward her RN licensure. Once she became an RN, she immediately started making contributions to the team and the unit's success. She willingly accepted challenging assignments, collaborated with the team to expand her knowledge base, and displayed undeniable compassion for her patients and their families. She took it upon herself to interact with the medical staff and leadership to improve overall unit outcomes using interdisciplinary collaboration. She became a CN II and earned her BSN while maintaining her full-time position. She was an active participant in unit and hospital-based councils, acted as a relief charge, and mentored new hires. She received a well-deserved promotion to CN III and continues to lead us with the same passion and knowledge. She has a unique tradition she brought to the unit that made me think of nominating her for a DAISY. During the Covid pandemic, our unit, like so many others in BayCare, had a high number of patients expiring. Even more distressing than that, family members were often not able to be with their loved ones during the end-of-life process. She would obtain the family’s permission, take a photograph of the patient’s hands, or if the family was allowed to visit, a picture of them holding hands. She would then print a copy of the photograph and provide it to the patient’s family as a peaceful memory that helped them cope with their loss. I have had many family members come to me, expressing gratitude for that small act, comforting them, and allowing them to share in their loved one's comfort. Please join me in recognizing what a unique individual she is and consider her for a DAISY Award.