May 2022
Zackary
Snell
,
BSN, RN
Duke University Hospital
Duke University Health System
Durham
,
NC
United States
He accepted my need to be independent while remaining close enough to ensure my safety.
I was in the hospital for three days. On my first afternoon, I had "T" and was looking forward to her the next day. I was disappointed when Zack came in the next morning. I had never had a male nurse and was a little uncomfortable. He immediately put me at ease with his engaging conversation and ability to laugh. His respect for me was what shone through. He accepted my need to be independent while remaining close enough to ensure my safety. He was engaging in conversation and never acted like he was too busy to be interested in me as a person. He let me know he had to go check on others and when he would be back. I had explained I had incontinence issues, and I never had to worry I would lose control because he did not dismiss my need to get to the toilet quickly. He recognized my emotional need to be active, and once I had walked and my tubes were out, he was comfortable with me walking the halls with my husband and didn't discourage me from doing what I needed. The last morning he was comfortable with me moving around by myself, which gave me the confidence I would be safe at home. While these may be standard procedures, after 15 surgeries, I know they were not always carried out. Zack is truly an asset to the staff and the medical profession and should be recognized because he goes above and beyond. This is the first time I have been inspired to nominate someone for the DAISY Award because he is truly outstanding.