As pre-admission nurses, we develop a relationship with our patients as we discuss not only their medical and surgical history but also their mental health and home life.

Recently, I was so thankful Nancy Burke was on the phone with this patient who truly needed some emotional support and guidance. As a part of our pre-admission intake interview, we ask if they are in any way being threatened, abused, or neglected. It was at this time the patient revealed her living conditions and the abuse she was experiencing. She was not in any immediate danger or physical despair, at that moment but stated feeling trapped and unable to get the help she needed to get out. As Nancy listened in disbelief of the past emotional and mental abuse as well as physical abuse. Nancy remained calm, her voice was compassionate and directed, and Nancy was able to give a member of our community the resource information to reach out for help. The patient was open to taking the resource information Nancy had to share and willing to reach out for help. Nancy proceeded to contact the AHS Crisis Intervention Department and provided them with the necessary information for them to follow up and provide assistance in improving this patient’s situation.

This interaction has changed the lives of the persons involved as well as myself. That phone call, that voice on the other end, and the knowledge and skill of the nurse were critical in creating a safe haven for a human being and the start of a healing environment. They were able to communicate with each other, provide a compassionate ear, and develop a plan for removing that patient from her abusive living conditions. Nancy provided a patient a safe haven to communicate her present situation and needs as well as the understanding that there are people out there willing to help others out. She is a true DAISY Nurse.