I did my senior practicum in the NICU at Evergreen Health. Last week was my final clinical shift in nursing school. I had an amazing experience with my preceptor as well as with the other nurses on the floor. Last Thursday, a baby passed away on the unit.

I have never experienced this before, so Molly showed me some of the postmortem care that she was providing for the baby and the family. Out of respect for the family, I did not go into the room with the family, but when Molly was out of the room, she showed me the memorabilia box as well as what the steps were once the family was done saying their goodbyes. After the baby was taken to the morgue, I asked Molly how she was feeling. In the past when I have talked to nurses about their emotions after a patient's death, they tell me that they have to separate their work and home lives and leave the emotions at work, but Molly did not say this. Molly told me that she knew that she needed to let out her emotions. She was aware of her feelings and knew that for her own health, she had emotions that needed to be released. She was able to hold it in during her shift in order to provide the best care for her patient and their family but was self-aware enough to keep her own health in mind.

This was really refreshing to see, and something that I will always keep in mind when I become a nurse. Molly showed me that it is okay and healthy to be sad and cry, but also showed me how to be an amazing and strong nurse for the family and for the rest of the patients. Molly is the definition of a DAISY Nurse.