Chelsea Pepper is an excellent example of what a nurse should be and is an inspiration to me. Through the time I have worked with her she has always exemplified both the DAISY qualities and attributes and the mission of the place in which she works.

My interaction with Chelsea began when I was new to the ICU. I was a night shift traveler who was transitioning to a staff member on the day shift. When I came that morning, she immediately came up to me to introduce herself. She was incredibly warm and welcoming.

She made sure to take time showing me around the unit and orienting me to the policies and procedures that would be different after my transition. She also made a specific effort not to "step on my toes" as she understood I had experience. She was the appropriate amount of watchful to ensure that our patient was getting the care they deserved.

This pattern continued as we became closer friends, and I got to see her in different roles. She was trained to respond quickly and was regularly assigned to that role. She always maintained compassion, ensuring patients got the best care she could coordinate, even though she was never going to be their primary nurse. She would make sure she went the extra mile for patients and families she just met even though she would not stay with them.

This is highlighted by her frequently going back and checking in on patients whom she had responded to, to ensure they were doing okay and didn't need anything. Chelsea was also trained to be a team lead and would do her best to ensure she was being fair to everyone. As she was responsible for patient bed assignments, she would talk with nurses prior to assigning their beds to check in. She wouldn't want people to feel overwhelmed by new admissions and would contribute to the best of her ability to these admissions.

Chelsea was never the type of person you would have to wonder where she went or if she was working. If you needed something, she was there consistently. Finally, her patient care was unmatched. Her patients and their families love her and consistently speak highly of her. She would take her time to answer questions and do her best to educate them or provide the resources they need.

She was regularly responsible for the "sickest" patients on the unit because she was trusted to provide excellent care. She is proactive and an excellent advocate for her patients. She isn't afraid to speak her mind when she knows it will make a difference, no matter how small. I would not only trust Chelsea to care for my family member, but I would also specifically request it.

She is an excellent nurse who highlights why this profession is as special as it is.