I would like to nominate Joe Anderson for the DAISY Award. Joe was my nurse in the emergency room a couple of weeks ago. I went to the ER and sat in the waiting room for two hours. By the time I was called back, I was in pain, tired, frustrated, grumpy, angry, and confrontational. Joe sensed that I was unhappy on multiple fronts and immediately made me feel better. He was kind, understanding, patient, and respectful. My defenses dropped right away.

Although Joe was very busy with other patients, he took his time with me and made me feel like I mattered and that he had time for me. Rarely do you get that feeling when you’re in an emergency room situation. He was professional, efficient, and thorough. Two weeks after I was seen in the ER, Joe helped treat my son-in-law. Again, he was amazing. Seeing him on two different occasions exhibiting the same outstanding qualities simply validated my belief that he is an incredible nurse and deserving of the DAISY Award. Joe exemplifies what a nurse should be, regardless of the department in which they work. If San Juan Regional Medical Center had more nurses like him, there would be far fewer complaints and much higher patient satisfaction.