When I read the information and history regarding the DAISY Award as to what nursing excellence is, clearly Kaitlin fits the definition. I had the privilege to receive her care the two mornings I was there. In fact, it didn’t even feel like “care.” Kaitlin felt to me as if she was there as a member of my family. She was there to support me but with a nurse’s uniform on. Everything Kaitlin did felt natural -- it’s her “calling.” Kaitlin is meant-to-be a nurse. Compassion was evident in everything she did for me. She hugged me when I needed a hug, she supported me when I needed my hand held, and was right there for me when I needed to use the facilities and more. Because of Kaitlin’s personal experience with my procedure, her advice, care and expertise to me was invaluable! I later learned that Kaitlin had the same procedure as I did, so she knew if what I was experiencing (literally) was normal or not. Most importantly Kaitlin provided me and my family with information, personal and professional, as to what we could expect when we got home, so there were no surprises. Knowing what to eat and not to eat, what to drink and not drink, easier ways to take my medication, etc. made my recovery easier rather than scarier. She truly calmed my fears.

Another time I truly thought Kaitlin was a saint was during two occasions during my short stay. One, I was asked to swallow a pill, and unfortunately it got stuck. My body’s reaction was to vomit and instantly Kaitlin was there -- almost like she just appeared -- to rub my back and hold my head up (since my procedure required to keep my head level) and provide kind words. What a nurse! Another instance, shortly after waking up from my procedure, for some reason I was afraid to fall asleep to get additional rest. Kaitlin recognized my anxiety without me telling her about it, and she took it upon herself to ask my permission to call my doctor for something to calm my nerves and help me get the sleep my body needed. With physician approval, she gave me the appropriate medication and was kind enough to stay with me until I fell asleep -- when I knew that she didn’t have to. I truly appreciate that Kaitlin recognized my fear and acted on my behalf during this time, without being asked!

I believe that Kaitlin deserves this award, and feel that not only was I lucky to receive her care, but North Fulton Hospital is really lucky to have such a nurse of her caliber on staff. Thank you, Kaitlin, for all that you do. You are truly one special person who knows the needs of her patients and you provide nursing care with ease, kindness, and the utmost respect.