Shaji Steephen, a Staff Nurse on the F ward Trauma at the Horton General Hospital, received a DAISY Award in recognition of the exceptional care he provides to his patients, and the compassion he shows them and his colleagues.

Shaji's nomination was made by a patient who was looked after by him while awaiting a decision on treatment for a broken hip. It highlights the difference he makes to the patients and the staff on the ward when on duty, and explains how Shaji managed a particularly challenging situation in a compassionate manner.

Shaji's nominator said:

"Shaji stood out for his level of commitment, his good humor, and understanding of each individual patient's needs. He seemed to be aware of each patient's concerns and always acted accordingly.

"A particular example of this was his response to the elderly lady who slipped in and out of periods of dementia. Shaji would always have an appropriate response and would engage with her, usually allaying her concerns and allowing her to relax and quietly fall asleep.

"He appeared to have the same good-natured approach to both patients and staff, an attitude he had at all times.

"His arrival in the ward usually seemed to lift the spirits of both staff and patients. From my own experience, I found he was very good at obtaining information on procedures and treatments a patient was to receive and, importantly, when they were likely to happen.

“His influence is very apparent within the ward, and is reflected in the positive attitude of the staff around him.”