Nicole Paul, ASN RN

I would like to nominate Nurse Nicole for the DAISY Award for the outstanding care and compassion she showed me during a very difficult ER visit. I came to the Emergency Room experiencing intense stomach pain while pregnant, frightened, overwhelmed, and physically uncomfortable. While other nurses and phlebotomists struggled to get a blood draw, I was poked 8 times by 5 other people. The situation became more stressful and emotionally exhausting. But then Nurse Nicole stepped in, and everything changed. She calmly took charge, reassured me, and made me feel safe. She got IV fluids started quickly, and while doing so, she spoke to me with such kindness and empathy that I could finally breathe. Her presence was grounding. She didn’t just treat my symptoms, she treated me as a whole person. In a situation where I felt like everything was out of control, she brought comfort, confidence, and professionalism. The blood draw was the one thing stopping me from getting the ultrasound I needed. I truly believe Nurse Nicole made all the difference in how I experienced that ER visit. Her gentle care and ability to advocate for me as a patient deserve to be recognized. She is exactly what a nurse should be: skilled, compassionate, and human. Thank you for considering her for this honor. She will always be someone I remember with gratitude.