Last week I witnessed a wonderful nurse, Lauren Evans, do something that I have never seen another nurse do in my three years in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. A concerned mother called about her baby, and Lauren calmly and compassionately spoke with this mother for over fifty minutes. She soothed the mother's nerves, instilled confidence in her ability to be a mother, and doted on her baby like they were old friends. This means everything to these mamas who have to mother their babies from a distance for months on end.
Of course, there are countless instances in which Lauren has exceeded the expectations required as a bedside NICU nurse. First and foremost, she is profoundly dedicated to our tiny patients and their families. She chooses to primary babies with difficult beginnings, difficult families, and ultimately devasting heartbreak. She serves as a linchpin for these families who are at risk of falling apart at any given moment. She helps them carry on and is a light in times where they can only see darkness.
Lauren is a teacher to her patient's families and to her coworkers. She assists the patient's family in becoming an expert to their baby. Over months and months, she molds these families to be not only competent caregivers but fierce protectors of their infant. Lauren also takes on the mighty task of educating nursing students and new nurses to the unit. She is a wonderful example of a compassionate and competent nurse to these minds that are so malleable and impressionable. I trust completely her ability to instill her wisdom, empathy, and skill onto these newer professionals.
Lauren is a leader. Anyone can attest to the high-stress environment of the NICU, but during times of high acuity, she remains positive and energetic. She recognizes duress in her coworkers and offers a helping hand when needed. She is the embodiment of a team player, sacrificing her own time to assist others.
Since Lauren began working on the NICU unit, almost three ago, I've had the privilege of witnessing her blossom into one of the best nurses I've ever met. When I work with her and watch her interact with families and others, her compassion rubs off and I find myself wanting to be more patient and empathetic. She teaches me to not rush through my care, but to practice with intention. Lauren is a true DAISY Nurse.