The St. Mary's Hospital Foundation proudly presented a DAISY Award to Beth Smith, RN, BSN in Perioperative Services. She was nominated for using excellent nursing assessment skills and compassion to calm a patient who was in pain after having surgery.
In her nomination form, Beth was described as showing great advocacy for her patient by quickly contacting the surgeon and anesthesiologist in charge to inform them of the patient's condition. She made several phone calls to the surgeon, updating him on the patient's condition and strongly suggesting to the surgeon he come to Ambulatory Surgery Center to assess the patient as soon as possible and talk with the patient and his family regarding the plan for his care.
Throughout the patient's recovery time, Beth continued to patiently answer questions and calm fears of the patient and his family. She stayed well beyond her shift to complete documentation and care for the patient. The decision was made to admit the patient for observation and continue the medication for pain relief. Beth continued to be there for the patient until she was certain that she had done all she could do to advocate fully for him.