I am not sure where to even start when talking about all of the amazing things that Tammy does for our patients, our families, our coworkers, and our unit. Tammy is one of our most senior staff members in the NICU (28 years!) and comes to work every day with a positive attitude. Even with all of the change that the NICU has gone through over the past couple of years, Tammy has always been there for others with an optimistic outlook. When staff members see that Tammy is the charge nurse, the resource nurse, or just their back-up for the day, it gives them a sense of security.
Tammy's knowledge and expertise among the NICU population is one to be commended. There is no question that Tammy cannot answer and no task that she is unable to help with. Among her many certifications, Tammy is ECMO certified and often orients new nurses to becoming ECMO RNs. On the day that Tammy oriented me to ECMO, I was very nervous, Tammy handled the situation with a sense of ease and confidence that created an amazing setting for me to learn. While the situation was stressful, Tammy understood what she needed to do to be a superior nurse, teacher, and leader.
What Tammy has done for this unit has been above and beyond. Tammy is often seen with a "shadow." New nurses who have the opportunity to have Tammy as their preceptor will say that they feel their training under Tammy has prepared them to become competent, confident, and efficient nurses. Tammy is a large part of the scheduling committee, which is not an easy task for a unit of this size; however, you will never hear Tammy complain.
Beyond all of the incredible things that Tammy has done for the unit, I believe that Tammy should be commended for the utmost care that she provides for her patients. Among the younger coworkers, Tammy is seen as a "mother" figure. And her warm, loving, caregiver personality perfectly translates into her role as a NICU nurse. Tammy is known among parents and caregivers for her patience, knowledge, and willingness to advocate for her patients. Whether it is a discharge home after a long NICU stay or a redirection of care, Tammy is able to handle all situations, creating an environment that is comfortable and supportive for the family.
I believe that Tammy is the perfect representation of a DAISY Nurse due to her experience, compassion for her profession, and dedication to her patients, families, and unit. Due to all of this, and more, I feel that Tammy is overwhelmingly deserving of this title. Sometimes, our biggest heroes are our "unsung" heroes; and with that, this nomination is long over-due.