Mika was my day nurse for 3 of my 4 inpatient days. From the moment I arrived to my 6th floor PCU room, I felt an overwhelming sense of compassion from her. I am a nurse myself and it was very difficult to be in the inpatient role. I felt helpless, nervous, and in pain arriving at my inpatient room. I remember being able to breathe a sigh of relief once I met Mika because I had a good feeling I was in great hands and would receive quality patient care. I also found out that she was a fellow Creighton grad, so that was an extra sense of comfort for me. I felt confident with her skills and knowledge in managing all my "lines" (arterial lines, PIVs, foley, epidural, chest tube). I never once felt like I was a burden for needing assistance or pressing the call light, as I struggled with the lack of independence. She advocated for me and my requests (ex: discontinuing my fluids since I felt I was getting swollen and retaining fluid).
She not only showed me respect, but she was also respectful to my family and friends who visited. She took extra time to talk through the chest tube removal process and helped me practice the breathing exercises for removal. She also allowed my family to be in the room as a distraction. I very much enjoyed the consistency of care I had by having Mika 3 days in a row.
I am familiar with the DAISY Award, but I was not aware of the acronym until this nomination. My newly diagnosed autoimmune disease made me even more compelled to nominate Mika for this specific award.
Although I hope to never return as a patient, I would allow Mika to care for me in a heartbeat. Thank you, Mika, for making helping make my inpatient stay as smooth as possible.