When looking for a nurse of DAISY caliber, look no further than Cathy Briggs. She embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for. Cathy has served Mercy for over 35 years with love, compassion, professionalism and the utmost poise. I have spent a great deal of time on her unit, and every time Cathy is there you feel the joy she brings to her patients and coworkers. Every patient interaction I have witnessed has been given with the utmost respect and dignity for not only the patient but also their families.
On one occasion, I heard a patient feel uncertain about the tests and next steps of their care. I watched Cathy take the patient's hand, going over the information repeatedly with such patience and tenderness until the patient felt confident in what would happen next. Her smile is infectious as is her love for what she does.
Cathy does not miss an opportunity to teach younger nurses, wanting to lift them up and mentor them into their futures. Cathy was identified as one part of a two-person team to help stand up bedside shift report. She took her role seriously wanting to ensure all of the nurses knew the importance of not only what is being asked, but the why behind it being best for the patient. Cathy makes a personal connection with every patient she cares for, leaving a small piece of herself with each and every one. Every patient of hers I have rounded on has raved about her, stating that she made their extremely difficult situation a bit brighter with how she invests in their feelings and care.
Cathy is Mercy Nursing and is what the DAISY is all about. I cannot think of another who is more deserving of this award. Cathy embodies what every nurse should strive to be, and I for one am so grateful to serve with her. We always look for that story that causes us to take a collective breath. Cathy delivers that type of care to every patient, every time.