Audrey was assigned to my 18-year-old granddaughter, who suffered TBI and is currently nonverbal and semi-comatose as the result of a car accident this year. She requires a gentle touch and maximum assistance. This nurse spent a great amount of time gaining her trust and response to oral care and believed her two front teeth were loose and possibly the cause of her guarding and total resistance.

Audrey requested a dentist to evaluate her that day, and the hospital dentist confirmed she was in extreme discomfort and, therefore, oral care was difficult and, most times, impossible. This may sound unremarkable, but in the case of a trach patient who is nonverbal and semi-comatose, oral care and communication are vital. Her teeth being loose wasn't diagnosed for four months until Audrey discovered it. I believe it's because she was laser-focused on her care and determined to help her in some way. Something so seemingly small will make a big difference in her recovery going forward because now all nurses doing her oral care will know to be aware of those sensitive teeth and not cause unnecessary additional pain to an already traumatized young patient. By the time my granddaughter was discharged, she would voluntarily open her mouth for oral care on the gentle coaxing and assurance that no one was going to hurt her. Every victory in her recovery is huge. Every win is a step forward in her quality of life. I credit this Nurse with this win! She should be recognized with a DAISY Award for the attention to detail and the extraordinary care that she is dedicated to giving to her patients in the most difficult of situations.