I have been working with Barbara for about 3 years in a unique arrangement. She is a nurse who actually supports 2 departments that work side-by-side in 3 different locations between Bridgewater and Flemington. I am part of the Center for Endocrine Health Weight Loss program that is located in Flemington.

I often go to Barbara with nursing questions regarding prescriptions, test results, prior authorizations, injection teaching, and patient reactions to new medications. She always makes time to answer my questions no matter how busy she is and explains the proper protocols. I have also observed Barbara with new staff training and pitching in with shortages to make sure the patients are well taken care of. Many times I hear her on the phone with patients who are frustrated and she is able to stay composed and professional while explaining the process and helping them find a solution to their problem.

There is one particular situation that stands out and the reason I feel she is worthy of The DAISY Award. One day, I was meeting with a patient who was experiencing a low blood sugar. While I was counseling her she felt very faint and started vomiting. I took the patient to an exam room, laid her down on an exam table, then ran down the hall and into the charting area where the nurses and medical assistants have their work stations. I simply said in a slight state of panic "I need a nurse." Barbara dropped everything and ran with me back to the patient.

Barbara checked her blood sugar, took her vital signs, held the basin for her, got her some water, and comforted the patient in a very professional, calming manor. Thankfully the patient responded quickly and did not need any additional care at that moment, but I was so grateful and it was comforting to witness such compassionate nursing care.