I nominate Jill, our House Supervisor, for the DAISY Award for her outstanding leadership and compassionate care in a highly complex and emotional situation that involved the safety of a newborn.

Jill was called to assist in the Labor and Delivery Department, where a mother who had just given birth was experiencing a severe mental health crisis. The mother was off her medications, displaying manic and irrational behavior, and was not cooperative with the clinical team. Security and social workers were present, but the situation remained tense and unsafe – particularly for the newborn, who was expected to be placed in state custody.

Despite the emotionally charged environment, Jill approached the situation with calm professionalism and empathy. Through her leadership, compassionate communication, and de-escalation skills, she was able to earn the trust of the mother. With Jill’s guidance, the team was able to safely transition the infant to the NICU, ensuring the baby’s well-being while also helping the mother feel heard and respected.

This situation could have easily escalated, but because of Jill’s presence and her ability to remain composed and compassionate under pressure, both the newborn and the mother received the care and protection they needed. Jill demonstrated exactly what it means to be a nurse leader – advocating for the vulnerable, supporting her team, and upholding the highest standards of patient-centered care.