When I was reassigned to Peds, the caregivers were reeling over the recent readmission of one of their former patients who had been there for NAS (Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome). His mother had passed away and he was readmitted for dehydration and other problems associated with lack of care while he was left unattended as his mother's death was unknown.

Shannon Hittle was Baby J's nurse and her care for this child was perfect. This is expected. What struck me as extraordinary was the compassion that was expressed and displayed for this infant and his family.
It was amazing the way she cared for this baby and his mother's memory.

Shannon cared for Baby J as if he were her own child. She spoke with great compassion about his mother and how she had done so well while the baby was in the hospital and how her death was so unexpected. She expressed disbelief that the baby's mom, could have overdosed as she had followed "all the rules" and gone to all of her appointments. She was deeply saddened when the family informed her that the baby's mother's death was, in fact, due to an overdose. She said, "I wish it had been something else."

Her compassion and non-judgmental, blameless care were refreshing. Every call from a family member was greeted with care and empathy. Every interaction with support staff was professional in so many ways, but Shannon's ability to be positive and respond and care for the baby's family and loved ones was full of empathy and hope instead of cynicism and judgment. When she interacted with Baby J she was genuinely happy to see progress and hope for a future for him.

In a profession where we see many infants who are exposed to drugs, Shannon maintained professionalism and empathy above and beyond straightforward nursing care. She remained positive and focused on providing great care to Baby J, to his mother's memory, and Baby J's family when she could have been understandably angry. I am proud to work with Shannon.

Note: This is Shannon's 2nd DAISY Award!