The CTICU was caring for a patient who had been hospitalized for several months. The husband had been at his wife's side for much of her lengthy inpatient stay, but he needed to return to the Harrisburg area several hours away to check on the couple's home, catch up on mail, and take care of other household chores.

Unfortunately, when he went to his car the February frigid weather derailed his plans. The husband's vehicle battery was drained by the cold.

When the ICU staff heard of the husband's dilemma they swung into action. They recognized the cost of a new battery represented a financial hardship for the couple. The unit director, Karen Schmieder, used money from the ICU kitty fund to pay for the battery.

Not only does she set a great example for her staff, she has all the necessary qualities of a DAISY Nurse.