We recently cared for a patient in the EP lab who did not speak English. Unfortunately, her family was not available to accompany her for the procedure. She was a little confused and anxious, which was completely understandable, given the circumstances. EP staff were prepared to use the translation line, but there is nothing like a physical interpreter to help ease anxieties. Our doctor told us that a Tidal Health staff member would accompany our patient to the lab to talk to her and guide her through the process. That staff member was nurse Leslie Schaffer.

When we went to pick up our patient who was in PCU, Leslie was at the bedside, actively involved in the patient's care. We just initially assumed that Leslie was the patient's primary nurse. Imagine our surprise when we discovered that Leslie was not her primary nurse but did not even work on the unit where the patient was staying. Arrangements were made for Leslie to accompany our patient to the EP lab from 3 Layfield, Leslie's home unit. As an ACLS-certified 3 Layfield nurse, she was certainly qualified to care for her both before and after her procedure. It was such a pleasant surprise.

Just as no two patients are alike, in EP, no two procedures are exactly alike. Patient anatomy can be very different, and occasionally, we have exciting and challenging situations that arise in a matter of seconds. Leslie's cardiac background allowed her to competently assist and support the EP team and keep our patient calm. For a newer RN who has never been in a potentially intimidating EP lab scenario, Leslie certainly rose to the challenge. She was helpful, attentive, supportive, and communicative. She comforted the patient and acted as another valuable set of hands...which is always welcome in our world! I truly believe that Leslie is a DAISY Nurse for her kindness and compassion towards this patient. Leslie was reassuring and kind and made a challenging procedure so much more palatable for our patient. It is that incredible dedication to patients and a willingness to go above and beyond that make our team at TidalHealth so amazing. Leslie's selfless actions and patient dedication positively impacted not only the TidalHealth Staff but also the patient and her family.

Thank you so much for all you do, Leslie!