October 2026 Honoree
Alanna Thomas, LPN
I would like to commend Alanna Thomas for the extraordinary compassion, critical thinking, and nursing judgment she demonstrated during a phone interaction with a patient.
The patient had recently experienced significant emotional distress and had been seen in our clinic following a routine outpatient procedure. The patient contacted Alanna seeking test results that were not yet available due to the procedure having been completed only the day before. During the conversation, Alanna recognized that the patient was becoming increasingly anxious and took time to provide reassurance, explaining that the clinic would communicate results as soon as they became available.
As the conversation continued, the patient expressed significant fear and worry after independently researching information related to the procedure findings. Alanna recognized that the level of distress being expressed warranted further assessment. Drawing upon her nursing experience and compassionate instincts, she paused the conversation's original purpose and began asking thoughtful questions to better understand the patient's emotional state and safety.
During this discussion, Alanna identified concerning statements that suggested the patient could be at risk for self-harm. When she offered assistance and recommended emergency intervention, the patient declined and abruptly ended the call.
Deeply concerned for the patient's well-being, Alanna relied on her clinical judgment and took immediate action by contacting local law enforcement to request a welfare check. She later learned that responders were able to make contact with the patient and intervene during a critical moment, ensuring the patient received urgent evaluation and support.
Alanna's actions exemplify what nursing is all about. She went far beyond the expected responsibilities of her role by recognizing warning signs, asking the right questions, and advocating for a patient's safety when it mattered most. Her quick thinking, compassion, and commitment to patient care very likely changed the course of this individual's life.
I am honored to work alongside a nurse like Alanna. Her ability to combine clinical expertise, critical thinking, and genuine concern for others is truly inspiring. I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for a DAISY Award nomination.
The patient had recently experienced significant emotional distress and had been seen in our clinic following a routine outpatient procedure. The patient contacted Alanna seeking test results that were not yet available due to the procedure having been completed only the day before. During the conversation, Alanna recognized that the patient was becoming increasingly anxious and took time to provide reassurance, explaining that the clinic would communicate results as soon as they became available.
As the conversation continued, the patient expressed significant fear and worry after independently researching information related to the procedure findings. Alanna recognized that the level of distress being expressed warranted further assessment. Drawing upon her nursing experience and compassionate instincts, she paused the conversation's original purpose and began asking thoughtful questions to better understand the patient's emotional state and safety.
During this discussion, Alanna identified concerning statements that suggested the patient could be at risk for self-harm. When she offered assistance and recommended emergency intervention, the patient declined and abruptly ended the call.
Deeply concerned for the patient's well-being, Alanna relied on her clinical judgment and took immediate action by contacting local law enforcement to request a welfare check. She later learned that responders were able to make contact with the patient and intervene during a critical moment, ensuring the patient received urgent evaluation and support.
Alanna's actions exemplify what nursing is all about. She went far beyond the expected responsibilities of her role by recognizing warning signs, asking the right questions, and advocating for a patient's safety when it mattered most. Her quick thinking, compassion, and commitment to patient care very likely changed the course of this individual's life.
I am honored to work alongside a nurse like Alanna. Her ability to combine clinical expertise, critical thinking, and genuine concern for others is truly inspiring. I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for a DAISY Award nomination.
Thank you, Alanna, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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