I would like to recognize Rachel for living our core values and serving not only our patients but their families wholeheartedly. Often in our department, the patient's family can't leave their side, but also can't financially afford to be here. If they aren't eating, she notices and buys them a meal. I've heard about this from many families. It's just normal for her to do for others. On one occasion, she had a young patient with a terminal prognosis. The patient's sister came from an hour away to be with her. Rachel noticed that she wasn't eating and that she looked very tired. She took the time to talk with the sister and learned that she was afraid to leave and that if she went home she wouldn't have enough gas to return. The nurse got her a meal and found her a place to shower so she could feel more comfortable. Then she talked to her charge nurse that day about the situation and the charge nurse and a few others immediately went to their purses and gave Rachel some money to give to the sister. She added some money and was able to give the sister enough for gas to go to and from the hospital and some extra for whatever else she may need while here. She was so proud of her coworkers but didn't think to mention her part in it. When I rounded on the patient, she told me with tears in her eyes how much Rachel cared not only for her but also for her sister. The patient said that she could rest knowing that her sister had that support.
If a coworker is sad, Rachel comforts them. If a family is in need, she helps them. She not only has excellent clinical skills, but she also provides her patients with physical and emotional comfort as well.
Yesterday she cared for a patient who is very critical and has a poor prognosis. The husband knew that he would be faced with a difficult decision today. He had formed such a bond with Rachel that he asked her to be with him when he made that decision. It's her day off, but she said to call her if he needed her. If they call her, I know that she will come.
She is a true DAISY Nurse, not only for all of the above reasons but because she doesn't know that she is. She just thinks that is how people should treat each other.