We have had a patient on our unit for more than 3 months. She is pregnant, which in a senior behavioral health unit is unusual. The patient had to have an emergency C-section. Cheryl has been this patient's nurse on many shifts. After working four 12-hour shifts in a row, Cheryl was to be off work at 7:30 pm. Instead, she accompanied the patient (who has no family or friends) to Labor and Delivery and stayed with the patient throughout the entire delivery of her baby. Cheryl was the only familiar face for this patient who has MRDD and had to go among many strangers to have an emergency C-section.
She encouraged the patient through the procedure and applauded the patient's decision to give her baby to an adoptive couple. The patient was eased by her overwhelming care. Cheryl then gave her own cross necklace to the patient. Cheryl gave her necklace to the patient as a gesture of kindness. I am Cheryl's manager and I am so proud of her for this wonderful nursing care of this patient. She definitely went above and beyond in this case!
Cheryl's willingness to be there for the patient is why she deserves the DAISY Award.