Emily Smith, a Staff Nurses on Neuro Blue Ward at the John Radcliffe Hospital, received a DAISY Award in recognition of the exceptional care she provided for a patient who was looked after by her on two different occasions.

Her nominator said: "Emily's care and compassion stands out by a mile. I have had two difficult experiences, and on both occasions, Emily has gone above and beyond to ensure I have received excellent individualized care. She ensured my symptoms were controlled, empowered me to make decisions about my own care and treatment, kept me well informed, and she has also made sure I never felt alone when I was scared."

"Not only did I feel she was listening and validating how I felt, but that she truly cared about my post operative experience and got the medication changed when needed."

When her nominator was admitted to the Blue Ward again, Emily managed to reassure them and minimized their stress.

The nominator shared: "Again, Emily ensured my medications were modified to ensure my symptoms were controlled. Although I know how time consuming this would have been for Emily, I never felt like I was a burden or that she was rushed, she ensured she listened to how I was feeling and acted promptly. Her care, compassion, friendly nature, and calming approach made a significant difference to how I felt on both these occasions and I am certain if it wasn't for Emily my experiences would have been much more distressing. Any time I see Emily is my assigned nurse I instantly feel safe and reassured. I can't thank Emily enough for how she looked after me and made me feel. She is a fantastic nurse and deserves the recognition!"