I could truly go on and on about the amazing qualities of Jennifer. When I think of extraordinary nurses, I immediately think of Jennifer Weist for a multitude of reasons. As a Shift Coordinator, Jen leads by example with gentleness, strength, integrity, and compassion towards patients and staff. When Jen is the charge nurse for the day, I immediately know it will be a good day! Her team spirit and impeccable work ethic motivate her to help others at any level whether walking a patient to the restroom, advocating for a patient to receive charity medications, or diffusing a tense family situation. Jen's consistency and level decision making make her invaluable on a unit where emergencies happen and lives hang in the balance. Though not required, Jen willingly takes a patient load to avoid overtaxing other nurses. When she does, patients are blessed! There is none with more astute clinical skills or judgment. Jen provides exceptional care meeting needs of both patients and families. She understands the need to build relationships with patients and to truly care. She treats each patient as she would her own family. Jen promotes healing and recovery in each moment of every day.

Jen cares about staff the same way. She listens and knows each person's story. When associates struggle personally, they turn to Jen for understanding, and she responds! Jen cares, and that motivates others to be caring in return. When a crisis happens, the staff knows Jen will not only keep her composure and make the best clinical decisions; she will also have their backs. To work on a unit that supports and encourages its nurses as Jen does is priceless to each one of us.

Jen has an outstanding reputation for leadership at Exempla Saint Joseph Hospital. She is seen as a leader for our unit and for nursing across the board. Physicians respect and value Jen's opinion about clinical and hospital concerns. Jen collaborates with the other units and flexes whenever needed. She always has the best for the organization and every patient in mind when making staffing or placement decisions.

I could truly go on and on about the amazing qualities of Jennifer Weist as a person, a nurse, a leader, and a friend. She exemplifies the DAISY Nurse each and every day.