Zulima Diaz, RN

I am honored to nominate Zuima for this award in recognition of the extraordinary care, compassion, and advocacy she demonstrated during my Mother's hospitalization.

My Mother was admitted for one week. Much of that time, she was not cognitively aware of her surroundings due to what we later understood to be an overadministration of medication through a pain pump that had been placed just days prior. Watching her in such a state was physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausting for our family.

Despite several days having passed with little improvement in her condition, Zulima took it upon herself to ask why no further action had been taken. She specifically raised concerns about the need for the pain pump to be evaluated and adjusted. When met with resistance, she did not accept that as the final answer. She advocated firmly and knowledgeably, pointing out that the pump had been placed by a neurosurgeon in the system and the details were documented.

What stood out most was not just her clinical awareness, but her unwavering commitment to doing what was right for my Mother. She went beyond routine care; she challenged assumptions, pushed through barriers, and ensured that my Mother's situation received the attention it urgently needed. Her actions reflected not just professional diligence, but genuine compassion.

In a moment where we felt helpless, Zulima became our voice and our reassurance. She treated my Mother not as a task or a case but as a person deserving of dignity, safety, and thoughtful care. That level of advocacy is something every patient deserves, and every nurse should strive to embody.

Zulima Diaz is a true credit to the nursing profession. Her willingness to go above and beyond the expected standard of care made a profound difference in my Mother's experience and in our family's trust in the healthcare system. For these reasons, I wholeheartedly believe she deserves a DAISY Award.