Deneen is extremely dedicated to the patients when in the OR and ensures the correct steps are followed every time for a safe operation. Deneen never has to be asked to keep worried families apprised of the status of their loved ones, for she is doing this routinely without disruption of the procedure. She is extremely kind to the trainees and other staff alike and is always volunteering to serve as a teacher to new nurses in the OR. Deneen steps in whenever she is needed for even roles that are not specifically hers, like when a scrub tech is unavailable so she scrubs in to hand instruments to the surgeon. She is also in charge of maintaining the supply of our specific items for our cases and keeps our pick ticket lists up-to-date constantly. As a result, those working in the OR know exactly the conduct of the operation and the tools we use for each specific surgery by each particular surgeon.

She is an unbelievable asset to our day-to-day work, and there is no way we could care for our patients without her. When I walk into the OR for surgery and see Deneen, I let out a huge sigh of relief, for I know my patients will be extremely well cared for, and I will have what I need to complete a successful surgery. As if this was not enough, Deneen showed her true dedication to our team this past Friday.

I, unfortunately, had to return to the operating room for a patient who was bleeding. We had a CRNA and a scrub tech but no nurse. The patient was becoming unstable, so we needed to go emergently back to the operating room. After a few telephone calls were made to find a nurse, I was told by the OR staff that Deneen would be coming in to assist as the nurse circulator. When I saw her, I inquired further as to how she was selected for this late-night operation. She said she was not on call but was notified and happy to help this patient in need. I could not believe what I was hearing. This was a Friday night at midnight, she was sleeping and not even on call, and came into the hospital to help a sick patient. She thought nothing of this and was glad to be there. This type of dedication must be recognized.

Deneen goes above and beyond daily, but this act was a true reflection of the nurse and person she is. Because of her willingness to help, we were able to return to the OR expeditiously and provide the care to the patient she so desperately needed. As a result, the patient healed well and has now been discharged from the hospital in good condition. 

Wearing a DAISY Button on her badge would tell the world how dedicated she is to patient care. Those who know and work with her though certainly know this already! It is time others find out how incredible and dedicated she is!