My nine-year-old daughter, B, was recently admitted to the Pediatric Unit twice as a result of persistent nausea and vomiting, which turned out to be the result of a kidney stone that went undiagnosed until her second admission. We were fortunate to have Tracy Cook as our daytime RN during both admissions.
Tracy met all of the qualities that are used to describe a DAISY Nurse. She made us feel welcome and at ease. She kept us informed and included us in our daughter's care. It was my daughter's second admission though that Tracy really went above and beyond what was expected of her. During my daughter's second admission, my daughter had been vomiting for close to a week, had been stuck multiple times, had severe abdominal discomfort, and was exhausted and emotional. When we found out that we would be transferred to another location to see Dr. P, a Pediatric Urologist, my daughter became extremely anxious.
In addition to the transfer, we were told that they need to place a urinary catheter before we were transferred. This too created an enormous amount of stress for my daughter. Tracy was willing to do whatever she could to put my daughter at ease and take her mind off of it. Tracy even danced to the "Git Up" to make my daughter laugh while she was being prepped for her urinary catheter. When my daughter couldn't calm down because of the upcoming ambulance ride, Tracy sat with B and explained what would happen so that she didn't feel so anxious. When Tracy's shift ended, she didn't leave. She stayed until she knew that everything was taken care of and we were ready to be transferred. B really enjoyed being taken care of by Tracy and even named her turtle that she painted after Tracy. Tracy helped make a bad experience better for our family.
Tracy routinely went above and beyond for my daughter and my family. We were blessed to have had Tracy care for our daughter and truly believe based on my daughter's hospital stay that Tracy exemplifies the qualities of a DAISY Nurse.

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