Eric started at Emory Saint Joseph on the fifth floor one year and seven months ago. From the very first day, I recognized that he knew what he was about and what his role is. He presented himself as a true caregiver, a leader, and one who understands the needs of the patient. An example of Eric’s work ethic and phenomenal patient care was for a patient who was confused and had a high fall risk. This patient would have the entire floor running like Usain Bolt on the stadium track to prevent him from falling. On this particular day, Eric was the assigned nurse for the patient. Now, know this was not his only patient, as Eric had four other patients in his care. Eric went into the room, before I even got to it, took his vitals, gave him a bath, changed his linens and gown, gave him his meds, and set him up for breakfast.

When I got to the room, Eric was smiling from ear to ear, proud of his accomplishments. Eric, while taking care of his other patients also kept watch over this patient all day, and so the marathon ended that day and every other day that Eric worked. This patient was well cared for until he was discharged, and never had a fall. Eric continues to show love and patience for the patients on our floor, not only to them but also to our staff.

During a very difficult time in my life, Eric listened to what I had to say and examined the matter, he came to realize that there was more going on inside of me and he made himself a friend and a comforter in the midst of my storm. His compassion and care were a blessing that helped me through the difficult time. I have watched Eric each day, how as a young man, he gives himself wholeheartedly to patients and staff. Even patients who were mean and unappreciative; he goes into those rooms and his persona has brought so much comfort to both patients and family members that their negative ideas, their mistrust, and their anxieties changed into a smile of trust and confidence in a person that cares. What a nurse. I am personally proud of him and all those who worked alongside him would stand in agreement with me that Eric Dwyer is a true DAISY Nurse.