Emma Jochim, ADN, RN

Emma cared for a patient who suffered a stroke. Prior to the event, the patient was an independent woman living at home with her family. Her husband and daughter had little knowledge about strokes or what caring for a loved one in this condition would involve. Shortly after arriving in the emergency department, the patient required intubation and mechanical ventilation due to the severity of her condition. Emma immediately ensured that the patient’s husband and daughter were brought to the bedside so they could be with their loved one during such a critical time. She took the time to thoroughly explain everything that was happening, including test results, treatments, positive signs, and the difficult challenges the family could potentially face moving forward.

The patient was later admitted to the ICU, but Emma’s compassion and support for the family extended far beyond the patient’s time in the ER. The following day, Emma went out of her way to visit Target and buy card games, puzzles, snacks, and a plant to help provide comfort and distraction during such a stressful experience. She also bought the patient a soft blanket, lotion, hygiene products, and fall-safe gripper socks to help make her more comfortable during her hospitalization. In addition to these thoughtful gifts, Emma wrote a handwritten card to the husband and daughters expressing her sympathy and gratitude for allowing her to care for their loved one.

A few months later, the patient returned to the emergency department with additional stroke symptoms. Emma immediately recognized the patient’s name and went directly to the ER lobby to see the family. She later shared that as soon as she walked into the lobby, the family recognized her and said, “Emma! We still have the plant that you gave us.” Emma sat with the family to comfort them as they faced another unimaginable situation with their loved one. During this visit, she learned the patient was now living in a nursing home and required 24-hour care. Emma offered continued support to the family, letting them know she would be willing to help care for the patient whenever needed or if the family was out of town.

During this second hospitalization, Emma checked with the patient’s primary nurse to ensure it was appropriate for her to update the family. After receiving permission, she brought them to a private area and carefully explained what was happening with their loved one. She remained honest and transparent throughout every conversation while continuing to provide emotional support in every way possible. Emma comforted the family with hugs, prayers, water, and tissues during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Through it all, she never expected anything in return. She told some coworkers that the support she provided the family was "fulfilling" and "the reason she became a nurse." Her father always told her she would fit in well in the ER, staying calm in stressful situations.

Emma has said she became a nurse to "Care for patients like my father, and support families like mine." The care Emma provided to this patient and her family went far beyond anything I have personally witnessed in healthcare. Her compassion, empathy, and dedication are evident in the care she provides every single day. She consistently goes above and beyond for her patients, despite the fast-paced, demanding environment of the emergency department. Emma not only provided exceptional medical care, but she also created a lasting impact on this family through her kindness, thoughtfulness, and unwavering support. She continued checking in on the family, provided meaningful gifts to bring comfort, ensured the patient had items to make her hospital stay more manageable, and offered continued assistance long after the patient left the emergency department. Emma is the type of nurse anyone would trust to care for themselves or their loved ones. Emma is the epitome of a nurse who deserves a DAISY Award.