Lisa uses the number "40" as a distinguishing timeline. She's been a nurse for 40 years, married to the same man for 40 years, and has lived in the same house for 40 years. I use the number "3". Three years ago I became a nurse at MCHS Franciscan Healthcare and met Lisa Craig within the first few days of my nursing orientation. Her brief presentation on IV skills expressed so much more than the act itself, I could see her passion for the profession, the one I was just about to dive into.
Fast forward three years and now I have the opportunity to work with Lisa as a valued co-worker. Whether one works in a hospital floor, specialty clinic, or special procedure department, one is always aware of their co-worker's strengths and wisdom. Lisa has a passion for nursing, a wealth of medical knowledge, and a gentle touch with all patients. I never knew though I would experience her care first hand, as a family member on the other side of the room.
In November, my mother-in-law was scheduled for surgery to have a port-a-cath placed. It is a very small procedure; one I calm my patients in saying "it's a very simple, straightforward, almost painless procedure." This time, however, I was a mess. I love the department I work in, the nurses I work with, and have confidence in all of them, but I would be lying if I said I didn't feel a sense of calm wash over me when Lisa came to get us from the lobby.
Lisa completed the admission process flawlessly, easing my nerves every step of the way. Her explanation of the plan of care for the day was descriptive and very easy for my mother-in-law to comprehend. In addition, she completed the IV insertion without difficulty (a task that always leaves my mother-in-law in pain). Before leaving the room, Lisa asked if there were any questions or anything else she could do for us, as there was not, she wished my mother-in-law well and thanked her for allowing her to care for her and God Bless. I work with Lisa every day and see the impact she leaves on patients and fellow co-workers, however, it doesn't mean as much until you are the family member and she is the one caring for someone you deeply love and care for.
Mayo Clinic Health System's mission is to "inspire hope" and to "provide the best care to every patient" which Lisa exhibits and has for the past 40 years as a nurse at Franciscan Skemp and now Mayo Clinic Health System - Franciscan Healthcare. In 1999, a program was created to recognize and honor "extraordinary nurses". The DAISY Award's main elements "to provide on-going recognition of the clinical skill and compassion nurses provide to patients and families" is something Lisa does every day and the very reason she is deserving of the DAISY Award.