At University Hospital (UH), we recognize the extremely important contribution made to patient care by the dedication, compassion and inspiration of the nursing staff with the DAISY Award.

Perlita Casal Registered Nurse working at UH for fourteen years. Pearl is a nurse nationally certified in chemotherapy administration as well as nationally certified oncology certified nurse (OCN) working in the outpatient infusion unit. Pearl is a highly skilled nurse that provides patient centered care in an effective way. The medical oncology suite is an outpatient treatment area that is fast-paced and unpredictable. The oncology nurses are required to safely infuse highly toxic agents intravenously for the purpose of obtaining cure, treatment or palliation for oncological diseases. Patient reactions to the medications can happen in seconds; where prompt nursing responses save lives. The required skill level, unpredictable outcomes, patient/ family emotions and patient acuity level make working in the area too difficult or undesirable for most nurses. But not for Perlite Casals and the other team members that choose this specialty. Pearl and her team members create an environment that is a positive, calm, healing, venue for patients to get care.

Pearl goes beyond expectations in her communication with patients and contributions to establish peer competency. She has gone above and beyond in assisting to create safety checklists for the department to ensure chemotherapy administration has additional safety checks and balances that protect patients and staff from unintended errors. If you ask Pearl what motivates her she will say "I just want what's best for the patients to get better". Pearl's commitment and dedication is quiet, conscientious and unwavering.

Through every brutal snowstorm, year after year, Perlita makes it to work. Recently during one of New Jersey's unanticipated ice storms Pearl got into an accident on her way to work. Even though her car was significantly damaged and she was shaken up, her main concern at the accident scene was ensuring that her patients were able to receive care. She directed police officers and made multiple phone calls to coordinated coverage for the patients; while still being rescued herself. Her main concern was to ensure patients were safely cared for. Perlita is an unsung hero. Daisy's shine where they are planted. Pearl is a University hospital highly qualified Registered Nurse that deserves this award.