...The story involves a young man who became a quadriplegic and also had to have a tracheotomy, following a devastating injury. He was, as expected, notably distressed about this devastating change in his life and was depressed and withdrawn. Beth worked especially hard to help turn his outlook around. The patient enjoyed music so she would put her phone in his room during her shift - tuned to a music channel, so that the patient could enjoy the sounds of music.

On one particular day, she requested permission from the physician to take the patient outside. She went above and beyond to secure the appropriate equipment and to assure that the multidisciplinary team would be available for this venture. She made all of the arrangements and asked the patient's Grandparents if they would like to accompany the team on the trip outside. The smile that came across the patient's face when the sun shone down on him was "AMAZING". Beth took the time to coordinate several more trips outside before he was discharged from STICU. This simple, yet challenging gesture made a big difference in the patient's overall demeanor. He began to interact more with the staff and to smile.

When the patient was transferred to the floor, the care and compassion provided by this nurse did not end. She would visit the patient regularly to let him know that he remained in her thoughts. She also purchased a radio for the patient so that he could continue to listen to the music that he loved so much.

This is but one example of how our new DAISY Honoree, Kelly Elizabeth Johnson's (Beth's) commitment to her patients and to the profession of nursing. She is truly an extraordinary RN who exemplifies professional excellence and compassion that extends beyond what is commonplace. She is an asset to the STICU and the Medical Center of Central Georgia.