Maddie Headden, RN, ADN

I have only encountered Maddie a handful of times in passing, yet even in those brief moments it was unmistakably clear that she is an extraordinary nurse. The level of compassion, intention, and dedication she brings to her patients is something truly special. I most often see Maddie caring for medically complex children, and the time and attention she gives each child is remarkable.

The first time I observed her, she was giving a patient a bath while performing range-of-motion exercises. What stood out was not just the clinical care, but how she transformed that moment into something meaningful, singing to the child and incorporating music therapy to create comfort and connection. Equally impactful was the way she communicated. She spoke to the child before every touch, explaining what she was going to do.

This level of respect and presence is not always seen, but it speaks volumes about the kind of nurse she is. Maddie consistently ensures her patients are not only cared for, but truly advocated for. She takes the time to meet their needs with dignity, making sure they are clean, comfortable, and seen.

Another time I encountered Maddie was during a rapid response. In a high-stress, fast-paced situation, she stood out immediately. I have rarely seen a nurse advocate so fiercely. She asked thoughtful, necessary questions and pushed for clarity to ensure the best possible outcome for her patient. Just as importantly, she made sure the family understood what was happening, taking time to explain the situation and the plan of care in a way that was both clear and compassionate.

A DAISY Award nurse exemplifies extraordinary clinical skill paired with deep compassion, and Maddie embodies both effortlessly. I am confident that if the children she cares for could speak for themselves, they would say she is a DAISY nurse a hundred times over.

Maddie goes above and beyond in every sense of the word. Her care leaves a lasting impact not only on her patients, but on everyone who has the privilege of witnessing her work. Without hesitation, I can say that if my own grandchildren were ever in the hospital, I would want Maddie to be their nurse.