Ping is a Reg-Med/Surg RN on a unit that supports 8 different service lines and has a high number of admissions and discharges. Ping has been a nurse at Parkland for less than two years and personifies nursing excellence. She can recognize when her peers need her help and makes them feel comfortable asking for it. She has been recognized by her peers for being compassionate with new staff. An example of this came from a new nurse who recently finished residency:

In the beginning, I would be passing meds late, and Ping would help pass my meds so I could catch up and take a breath. She is always willing to help others. She asks if I need help or if I'm okay. She helped me a lot when I was on my own in the beginning, and it made me proud when I finally could ask HER if she needed my help and if she was okay. She has given me great feedback regarding practice and how to communicate with providers and patients. Overall, Ping has inspired me to be the type of nurse I want to be. She is very calm in stressful situations, organized, and an amazing team player.

During RAT calls or codes, staff report that they know they can count on Ping to support them in any way; sometimes all it takes is the emotional support she provides.

In addition to being compassionate, she is an advocate for patients and keeps them safe by being open to teaching and reviewing procedures. A new nurse had a patient with a heparin drip. Ping went through each step, starting with two-patient identification, scanning the heparin bag, making sure the patient had the correct lab order, checking the pump, and ensuring the correct weight was programmed. She creates a safe atmosphere where anyone can ask questions and doesn’t make them feel demeaned. She always helps family members and visitors and includes them in the plan of care for the patient. Patients have recommended Ping for recognition:

"Ping made it comfortable for me; she explained everything in detail. She was very outgoing and caring. I hope she gets recognized; she's great."

"Outstanding attitude; checked on me more than other nurses; kept my bandage clean; and made sure my guest was taken care of."

In a time when retaining nurses has become a priority, Ping has demonstrated the importance of peer-to-peer relationships. Not only does she make new nurses believe in what they do, but she gives them the essential tools and confidence to provide safe patient care. Evidence shows that if nurses are happy, patients are well taken care of. For this reason, I believe that Ping is a true DAISY Nurse.