I have worked with Debbie Cash for the past 5-6 years. She not only demonstrates compassion for her patients and their families but also goes out of her way to accommodate their needs for a safe transition home. A 72-years-old female with extensive mental health issues presented pre-op for surgery, accompanied by her 94-year-old mother who was the primary caregiver.
Upon arrival to ASU, the pre-op RN noted the patient's mother having great difficulty ambulating with her walker, (a small, frail woman). That RN brought her concerns to the charge nurse (the ability of this 94-year-old to care for her daughter). They live in a 2-story home with one bathroom on the upper level, no cell phone or other family members to assist with care. The mother was placed in a wheelchair, but no other arrangements were investigated pre-op. At approximately 1530, the phase 2 post op staff were alerted to these concerns. Several attempts by phone and a page to a social worker were made without success initially. We thought a 23-hour stay may have been an option, but the mother was very opposed to that.
The ASU phase 2 RN took it upon herself to navigate all the phone calls to manager, social worker, etc. which was a lengthy process and arranged special transportation home for them with assistance to get safely inside. Meals on wheels was arranged to start in the morning, they were fed here that evening, and home health to go in the next morning also. Debbie stayed over her shift to ensure all arrangements were made and a smooth transition back home was accomplished. Debbie deserves the recognition as an exceptional, kind and compassionate RN, a respected peer and a nurse we all love to work with.

Note: This is Debbie's 2nd DAISY Award!