This letter is to ask The Nurse Professional Growth and Retention committee to consider Erika Foppiano, RN for the Daisy Award. Erika is one of the most compassionate nurses we have on 100 Central. Almost every day that we round on our patients we hear feedback about what a great nurse she is. She has a humble, compassionate spirit and spends most of her time with her patients or making herself available to help her coworkers.

The most recent story I remember about Erika is when we had a patient who had a very difficult time with pain management. Erika was the one nurse who was able to establish a relationship with this patient and provide her comfort. She stated “Erika is the most understanding nurse. She always gave my pain medicine on time, did not accuse me of taking too much and when I was ready to be discharged, she explained everything in great detail. She did not label me in any way and she always treated me with dignity, respect and compassion”.

100 Central is not an easy unit. We have very sick patients who require a lot of time and attention. Erika seeks out the patients who are having a difficult time and is able to turn a problematic situation into a positive experience. She is understanding and patient and always goes one step beyond what is required. Erika’s patients know that she cares about them and they comment on how she checks on them so frequently that they do not have to use the call light. No matter what kind of day Erika is having, she never seems rushed and her patients always feel like they are her top priority. She is a blessing to 100 Central and Memorial Hospital. She consistently demonstrates our values of reverence, integrity, compassion and excellence and always goes beyond the call of duty. She is well respected by her patients, leaders, physicians and her coworkers. Erika always has a beautiful smile on her face and will not say a negative word about anyone. She is an inspiration!

Sincerely,
Sue Mathew
Director of Cardiac Services