June 2026 Honoree
Taralena Emilianstev, MSN, RN
I would like to nominate Taralena for the DAISY Award because she truly embodies what it means to be an extraordinary nurse. Taralena consistently goes above and beyond for her patients, ensuring that they feel safe, heard, and cared for during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. She is incredibly attentive and compassionate, always taking the time to thoroughly assess her patients and advocate for what they need. Not only is Taralena an exceptional nurse to her patients, but she is also an incredible teammate. She never hesitates to step in when help is needed and is always willing to support those around her. When I work alongside her, I always feel supported and respected. She takes the time to explain things clearly, share her knowledge, and help others grow. I have personally learned so much from her, and she continues to be an inspiration to me and many others on our unit.
Recently, Taralena demonstrated just how impactful her attentiveness and advocacy can be. A patient on our unit was behaving differently than usual, and many initially attributed the changes to depression. Taralena trusted her instincts and recognized that something didn’t seem right. She took the initiative to investigate further and noticed that important tests, including a drug screen and CT of the head, had not been completed. She strongly advocated for these tests to be performed. The imaging revealed that the patient had a newly developed brain tumor along with hydrocephalus. Because of Taralena’s persistence in getting the tests done quickly, further lifesaving interventions were able to take place. The patient was intubated and quickly transferred from our MICU to the Neuro ICU for the specialized care they urgently needed. Taralena’s assessment skills, attention to detail, and willingness to advocate for her patient led to a critical diagnosis that may very well have saved this patient’s life. Taralena exemplifies what the DAISY Award represents: compassion, clinical excellence, advocacy, and dedication to patient care. She consistently uplifts both her patients and her fellow nurses, and I truly believe she deserves this recognition for the incredible nurse and person that she is.
Recently, Taralena demonstrated just how impactful her attentiveness and advocacy can be. A patient on our unit was behaving differently than usual, and many initially attributed the changes to depression. Taralena trusted her instincts and recognized that something didn’t seem right. She took the initiative to investigate further and noticed that important tests, including a drug screen and CT of the head, had not been completed. She strongly advocated for these tests to be performed. The imaging revealed that the patient had a newly developed brain tumor along with hydrocephalus. Because of Taralena’s persistence in getting the tests done quickly, further lifesaving interventions were able to take place. The patient was intubated and quickly transferred from our MICU to the Neuro ICU for the specialized care they urgently needed. Taralena’s assessment skills, attention to detail, and willingness to advocate for her patient led to a critical diagnosis that may very well have saved this patient’s life. Taralena exemplifies what the DAISY Award represents: compassion, clinical excellence, advocacy, and dedication to patient care. She consistently uplifts both her patients and her fellow nurses, and I truly believe she deserves this recognition for the incredible nurse and person that she is.
Thank you, Taralena, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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