Jennifer has always been very pleasant and compassionate to our patients but today her work truly exemplified VPH's core values. A young, unkempt, man with a history of psychiatric illness presented to the ED complaining of foot pain. After assuming care of the patient, Jennifer noticed the man's shoes appeared too small for his feet. This was confirmed when the patient was being discharged: he grimaced while putting his shoes on to leave. Jennifer asked the man to wait, went to her car, and returned with a very nice pair of Hoka sneakers (these high-end sneakers retail for $150). Jennifer's generosity and compassion solved this young man's problem. Although the young man with psychiatric problems was difficult to communicate with and rude to ED staff including Jennifer, Jennifer was able to look past the illness and show her compassion.
During the same shift, there was a teenage girl and her family awaiting transfer to another facility. The dietary department was slow to deliver lunch and the girl was looking forlorn. Jennifer had made a pot of home-made soup to share with coworkers (she's a skilled cook who previously worked as a line cook). Jennifer brought out soup for the entire family who were all happy for the comfort and warmth during their stressful visit to the ER. These are just a few of Jennifer's kindnesses I feel exemplify VPH's core values and make Jennifer a true DAISY Nurse.