This has been a dynamic year for 13 Pavilion, dealing with blending in the workforce with changes in the patient population. Nika has accepted all these changes with grace and quickly committed to supporting the staff in many ways. Nika implemented a change to our daily hurdles, making them happen at 6:50 am each day, which includes both the night shift and day shift nursing staff. Nika reviews not only the dashboard but also any missing documentation, patient education needs, and any important announcements the staff needs to hear. Nika is extremely thorough while being kind and thoughtful and addressing every staff member with respect.

Nika remains at 13 Pavilion all day, every day: checking patients’ skin, answering lights, verifying safety measures are in place, orienting new staff, providing "at the elbow" education to the staff, and interacting with patients and their families. Nika has taken over chairing the CAUTI committee and is partaking in a study related to oral hygiene. Nika is approachable, engaged, and has a wonderful sense of humor. Nika embodies the Jefferson Values and is an exceptional medical/surgical nurse. Because of Nika, several of the 13 Pavilion nursing staff have applied and been accepted on the clinical ladder. She also encourages the nurses to become certified med/surg nurses.

***

I am honored to nominate Dominika O'Brien for the DAISY Award. I have had the privilege of working with her for years, and in her role as Clinic Practice Leader, Dominika has shown exceptional leadership, dedication, and commitment to both patient care and staff development. Dominika’s proactive approach has made a significant impact on patient satisfaction and staff morale. She ensures that everyone is kept up to date with unit policies, procedures, and educational practices. Her leadership shines through in daily huddles, where she reviews critical tasks such as central line changes, Foley care, and patient assessments. She implemented a 6:50 am huddle time, allowing both day and night shift nurses to collaborate and follow through on pending tasks. Her diligence has greatly improved team focus and performance.

A notable contribution from Dominika was her initiative on a project to prevent pressure ulcers through early intervention, which led to a marked reduction in pressure ulcers in our unit. This project reflects her commitment to quality patient care. She consistently goes above and beyond her role, checking in on patients, answering call bells, and ensuring patient needs are met. She is also a dedicated mentor to new nurses, fostering a collaborative learning environment that strengthens the unit. In summary, Dominika O'Brien is an invaluable asset, and her knowledge, compassion, and leadership make her an outstanding CPL.