Sarah M Mullins
November 2024
Sarah M
Mullins
,
RN, ADN
MTU
UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center
Culpeper
,
VA
United States
Sarah’s dedication ensured that this patient not only had a dignified end but also the privilege of being part of a precious family milestone.
I am honored to nominate Sarah for the DAISY Award, as she exemplifies what it means to be an Extraordinary Nurse. Sarah goes above and beyond in her commitment to her patients and her nursing team, consistently advocating for both with unwavering compassion.
A perfect example of her dedication occurred when she cared for a hospice patient who was declining rapidly. Initially, this patient misunderstood what hospice care entailed, fearing it meant merely waiting to die. Sarah took the time to explain the true essence of hospice, sharing her personal experiences to educate on its purpose. Through her compassionate conversation, the patient found clarity and ultimately chose to embrace hospice care.
Sarah’s advocacy didn’t stop there; she also reached out to the patient’s wife and family, ensuring they understood the decision. With their agreement, Sarah coordinated with the care team, including hospitalist services, case management, and social work, to facilitate the transition to hospice services. Once in hospice, Sarah ensured the patient received appropriate pain management to maintain his comfort.
In a heart-wrenching moment, the patient expressed his sorrow about not being able to attend his daughter’s upcoming wedding. In her characteristic way, Sarah jumped into action. She spoke with the daughter and the family about the possibility of holding the wedding in the patient’s room. When they embraced the idea, Sarah quickly jumped into action to make it happen. Just two days later, an emotional ceremony took place. Many of the nursing staff teared as they saw the patient holding his daughter’s hand as she married the love of her life. Once done, he raised his hands and expressed his love to his daughter. Even though we couldn’t understand what he was saying, we could hear and feel the emotion.
Tragically, the patient passed away the following day, but not before Sarah had the profound honor of preparing the family for the end. She guided them through their goodbyes, offering prayers and support as they surrounded him with love. Thanks to Sarah’s unwavering care and advocacy, this family experienced an unforgettable moment that they will cherish forever. Sarah’s dedication ensured that this patient not only had a dignified end but also the privilege of being part of a precious family milestone. Her ability to create meaningful moments in the midst of heartache is a testament to her extraordinary character and commitment to her patients. Sarah brings light and compassion to her nursing practice.
A perfect example of her dedication occurred when she cared for a hospice patient who was declining rapidly. Initially, this patient misunderstood what hospice care entailed, fearing it meant merely waiting to die. Sarah took the time to explain the true essence of hospice, sharing her personal experiences to educate on its purpose. Through her compassionate conversation, the patient found clarity and ultimately chose to embrace hospice care.
Sarah’s advocacy didn’t stop there; she also reached out to the patient’s wife and family, ensuring they understood the decision. With their agreement, Sarah coordinated with the care team, including hospitalist services, case management, and social work, to facilitate the transition to hospice services. Once in hospice, Sarah ensured the patient received appropriate pain management to maintain his comfort.
In a heart-wrenching moment, the patient expressed his sorrow about not being able to attend his daughter’s upcoming wedding. In her characteristic way, Sarah jumped into action. She spoke with the daughter and the family about the possibility of holding the wedding in the patient’s room. When they embraced the idea, Sarah quickly jumped into action to make it happen. Just two days later, an emotional ceremony took place. Many of the nursing staff teared as they saw the patient holding his daughter’s hand as she married the love of her life. Once done, he raised his hands and expressed his love to his daughter. Even though we couldn’t understand what he was saying, we could hear and feel the emotion.
Tragically, the patient passed away the following day, but not before Sarah had the profound honor of preparing the family for the end. She guided them through their goodbyes, offering prayers and support as they surrounded him with love. Thanks to Sarah’s unwavering care and advocacy, this family experienced an unforgettable moment that they will cherish forever. Sarah’s dedication ensured that this patient not only had a dignified end but also the privilege of being part of a precious family milestone. Her ability to create meaningful moments in the midst of heartache is a testament to her extraordinary character and commitment to her patients. Sarah brings light and compassion to her nursing practice.