Sara exemplifies excellence as a nurse leader and advocate through her unwavering commitment to her coworkers and patients, demonstrating deep empathy, innovation, and dedication that transcend the traditional responsibilities of her role. She prioritizes educating her patients about their health conditions and treatment options, ensuring they are well informed and empowered to make decisions about their care.

Sara goes above and beyond for her patients and treats them with such empathy and kindness it is contagious to all around her. She spends much of her time training new nurses, whom she welcomes so kindly to the unit. Even when they finish orientation, Sara goes out of her way to seek other nurses to look out for newer nurses and have them make sure they are doing OK.

Sara participates in multiple staff-run committees that help advocate, innovate, and improve the experience of employees and patients. She participates in the ED Wellness committee and goes out of her way to spend her own money on treats for the staff to enjoy during those high-stress days, bringing joy to the staff. Sara fosters a positive and supportive work environment. She initiates team-building activities, recognizes and celebrates achievements, and provides emotional support during challenging times.

Sara is one of the senior nurses on the floor, and she is always quick to set expectations for patients and patients' family members in a kind, empathetic manner. On high-traffic days when the ER is at capacity, she does a tremendous job alleviating patient anxiety by educating them about the process of their visit.

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As a colleague who has had the privilege of working closely with Sara in the demanding environment of the Emergency Department, I have witnessed firsthand her extraordinary dedication, profound compassion, and truly unique contributions to our team and our patients, making her truly deserving of the DAISY Award.

While Sara may present with a straightforward and efficient demeanor, which is an invaluable asset in the fast-paced and often high-stress environment of the ED, beneath that exterior lies one of the most genuinely caring and empathetic hearts I have ever encountered. She is, quite simply, one of the best humans I know, consistently embodying the very best of our profession.

Sara's commitment to patient-centered care is exemplary. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that our patients and their families not only receive exceptional medical attention but also feel heard, understood, and genuinely cared for during incredibly vulnerable moments. Whether it's ensuring their most basic needs are met, patiently explaining complex medical information, or simply offering a calming presence, Sara has an extraordinary ability to "lean into what matters most" for everyone, providing holistic care that extends far beyond clinical tasks.

Beyond her outstanding patient care, Sara is a tireless and selfless advocate for her colleagues. Her involvement in multiple committees, particularly the Wellness Committee – where I have the privilege of working alongside her – showcases her deep commitment to supporting the well-being of our entire ED team. Sara truly never "takes off the hat" when it comes to worrying about and planning for her co-workers. It's not uncommon for us to be exchanging text messages late into the night, meticulously planning the next activity or discussing who might need an extra dose of recognition or a little extra support. She is a true mentor, a steadfast source of support, and genuinely wants the best for everyone around her.

What makes her efforts even more remarkable is her profound generosity. Much of her personal time and financial contributions to our wellness initiatives come directly from her own pocket, with her never seeking reimbursement or recognition for these personal sacrifices. This selfless spirit speaks volumes about the depth of her heart and her unwavering dedication to creating a supportive and thriving work environment for all of us.

Sara embodies the spirit of nursing excellence not just through her clinical skills but through her profound humanity, inspiring leadership, and unwavering dedication to both patients and staff. She sets a standard of compassionate care and selfless team support that inspires me daily to be a better nurse and a better colleague.

For her unparalleled dedication, her heartfelt commitment to patient-centered care, and her invaluable contributions to fostering a supportive and thriving work environment, I wholeheartedly believe Sara is exceptionally deserving of the DAISY Award. She truly represents the very best of our profession and would be a most deserving recipient.

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Sara exemplifies what it means to provide not only exceptional care to her patients, but also to her fellow staff members. Sara, our wellness champion, knows how to bring a smile to fellow staff members on some of the most difficult shifts. Also assisting with the retention committee, Sara works with leadership to identify strategies and incentives to retain staff in the department. Out of everything she is involved in, I would say one of Sara's favorite things to do is precept new nurses. Seeing her teach new nurses the exceptional care she provides is truly inspiring. She truly deserves this recognition and is an asset to the emergency department.