Joanne Keaney
August 2025
Joanne
Keaney
,
RN
Emergency Department
North Shore University Hospital
Manhasset
,
NY
United States
Her expertise is evident in everything she does, but what truly sets her apart is the way she shares that knowledge—with patience, clarity, and genuine care.
Joanne, or as we know and love her, Jojo, is the matriarch of the Emergency Department. All nurses, doctors, ancillary and managers would agree. She has been in the department for decades and is our “flow” nurse, meaning she is basically our second in command to charge every shift, helping with throughput in the department. She is knowledgeable of all policies and procedures. She has incredible working relationships with hospitalists and other heads of the department, and this award is overdue for her. She is the first one to offer to stay late to help cover nurses' breaks if we are short-staffed. She is the one rounding back on the nurses and following up with them, “How did that situation end up playing out?” And has open discussions to help you understand all angles on a situation.
I’ve had several experiences with Jojo where she exemplifies a true DAISY Award-winning nurse. Every shift with her, she goes above and beyond. There have been several ICU patients that I’ve had in the ED who have had difficult dispositions. She advocates for the patient and on behalf of the department. One of my first codes, I was the recorder, and so overwhelmed with the documentation that JoJo walked me through it. If I ever have an interaction with a doctor or patient that leaves me uneasy, I go to her to discuss it. She is trustworthy and shares her wisdom, which allows me to broaden my perspective and be the best nurse and coworker I can be.
***
Jojo is a vital part of the emergency department. She is one of our Flow nurses who oversees the department. She ensures proper flow through the department. On top of that, she’s a valuable resource with her 40+ years of experience. She has become a go-to for help and guidance from all staff, especially new hires. We would be lost without her.
***
Jojo goes out of her way to advocate for not only the ER patients but the staff as well. She will handle any situation that arises. She communicates with logistics as well as the doctors and nurses of the ICUs when we have critical patients and ensures they are transported in a timely manner. If there is ever a policy question, Jojo knows the answer. She is more than willing to jump in and help out in any situation. She is the heart and soul of the ER, and we are truly so lucky to have her wisdom and expertise in the ER.
***
As a new nurse stepping into the challenging and often unpredictable world of emergency medicine—particularly in a Level 1 trauma center—the learning curve can be steep and, at times, overwhelming. Nursing is a profession that demands not only clinical skill and quick thinking, but also resilience, compassion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. In those early days, I often found myself questioning if I was truly prepared for the weight of responsibility that comes with the role.
That’s why having a nurse like this one by my side made all the difference. With years of experience and an exceptional depth of knowledge in emergency nursing, she has been an invaluable resource to our entire team. Her expertise is evident in everything she does, but what truly sets her apart is the way she shares that knowledge—with patience, clarity, and genuine care.
What I’ve appreciated most is her approachability and the safe space she creates for learning. No matter how many questions I had or how unsure I felt, I always knew I could go to her without fear of judgment. She offered support and reassurance when I needed it most, helping me grow more confident and capable in my role.
***
Jojo consistently demonstrates clinical knowledge and is always available to provide guidance and support to her colleagues. She is the most resourceful, knowledgeable, and trustworthy nurse; always everyone’s go-to for questions and advice. Her calm demeanor and thoughtful approach help others think through situations clearly and confidently. She is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care, paying attention to all the details others may overlook to ensure all patients get to the correct locations safely and in a timely manner. She keeps the department moving smoothly, efficiently, and safely, and I do not know how we would function without her.
***
Her dedication to her job, her coworkers, and her patients goes above and beyond any description I can offer. Joanne truly embodies the meaning of "FLOW" in FLOW RN. She not only expertly manages patient flow, ensuring smooth transitions and efficient throughput, but she also orchestrates staff assignments with incredible care and consideration, maximizing everyone's effectiveness while minimizing stress. Frankly, our throughput wouldn't be nearly as successful without her.
Beyond her logistical brilliance, Joanne provides compassionate care that touches the lives of everyone around her. She consistently honors the human spirit of both patients and colleagues with dignity and respect, creating a positive and supportive environment. She is a true role model for excellence and teamwork, always willing to partner with team members to exceed patient and family expectations.
On a personal level, Joanne has been an immense inspiration to me. Her dedication to both her family and her career has pushed me to work harder and strive to be the best working mom I can be. Her invaluable advice and boundless support have been instrumental in my own growth.
Joanne exemplifies all the criteria for this award:
Provides remarkable patient experience: By ensuring smooth patient flow and thoughtful staff assignments, Joanne contributes directly to a positive and efficient patient experience.
Provides extraordinary compassionate care: Joanne's caring nature extends to both patients and colleagues. She treats everyone with respect and empathy, creating a supportive atmosphere.
Honors the human spirit with dignity and respect: This is evident in all her interactions, fostering a sense of value and trust among patients and staff alike.
Role models excellence and teamwork: Joanne's dedication, work ethic, and collaborative spirit set a high standard for everyone around her.
Partners with team members to exceed patient and/or family expectations: Her ability to bring people together and work towards a common goal consistently results in exceptional patient care.
Joanne is a truly exceptional nurse and a deserving recipient of the DAISY Award. Her contributions to our team and the patients we serve are invaluable.
***
This nurse is truly exceptional in patient care and is the first person to give you help or advice with difficult scenarios. This nurse is truly an Emergency room nurse encyclopedia full of knowledge and is always willing to help with a smile on her face!
I’ve had several experiences with Jojo where she exemplifies a true DAISY Award-winning nurse. Every shift with her, she goes above and beyond. There have been several ICU patients that I’ve had in the ED who have had difficult dispositions. She advocates for the patient and on behalf of the department. One of my first codes, I was the recorder, and so overwhelmed with the documentation that JoJo walked me through it. If I ever have an interaction with a doctor or patient that leaves me uneasy, I go to her to discuss it. She is trustworthy and shares her wisdom, which allows me to broaden my perspective and be the best nurse and coworker I can be.
***
Jojo is a vital part of the emergency department. She is one of our Flow nurses who oversees the department. She ensures proper flow through the department. On top of that, she’s a valuable resource with her 40+ years of experience. She has become a go-to for help and guidance from all staff, especially new hires. We would be lost without her.
***
Jojo goes out of her way to advocate for not only the ER patients but the staff as well. She will handle any situation that arises. She communicates with logistics as well as the doctors and nurses of the ICUs when we have critical patients and ensures they are transported in a timely manner. If there is ever a policy question, Jojo knows the answer. She is more than willing to jump in and help out in any situation. She is the heart and soul of the ER, and we are truly so lucky to have her wisdom and expertise in the ER.
***
As a new nurse stepping into the challenging and often unpredictable world of emergency medicine—particularly in a Level 1 trauma center—the learning curve can be steep and, at times, overwhelming. Nursing is a profession that demands not only clinical skill and quick thinking, but also resilience, compassion, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. In those early days, I often found myself questioning if I was truly prepared for the weight of responsibility that comes with the role.
That’s why having a nurse like this one by my side made all the difference. With years of experience and an exceptional depth of knowledge in emergency nursing, she has been an invaluable resource to our entire team. Her expertise is evident in everything she does, but what truly sets her apart is the way she shares that knowledge—with patience, clarity, and genuine care.
What I’ve appreciated most is her approachability and the safe space she creates for learning. No matter how many questions I had or how unsure I felt, I always knew I could go to her without fear of judgment. She offered support and reassurance when I needed it most, helping me grow more confident and capable in my role.
***
Jojo consistently demonstrates clinical knowledge and is always available to provide guidance and support to her colleagues. She is the most resourceful, knowledgeable, and trustworthy nurse; always everyone’s go-to for questions and advice. Her calm demeanor and thoughtful approach help others think through situations clearly and confidently. She is dedicated to providing exceptional patient care, paying attention to all the details others may overlook to ensure all patients get to the correct locations safely and in a timely manner. She keeps the department moving smoothly, efficiently, and safely, and I do not know how we would function without her.
***
Her dedication to her job, her coworkers, and her patients goes above and beyond any description I can offer. Joanne truly embodies the meaning of "FLOW" in FLOW RN. She not only expertly manages patient flow, ensuring smooth transitions and efficient throughput, but she also orchestrates staff assignments with incredible care and consideration, maximizing everyone's effectiveness while minimizing stress. Frankly, our throughput wouldn't be nearly as successful without her.
Beyond her logistical brilliance, Joanne provides compassionate care that touches the lives of everyone around her. She consistently honors the human spirit of both patients and colleagues with dignity and respect, creating a positive and supportive environment. She is a true role model for excellence and teamwork, always willing to partner with team members to exceed patient and family expectations.
On a personal level, Joanne has been an immense inspiration to me. Her dedication to both her family and her career has pushed me to work harder and strive to be the best working mom I can be. Her invaluable advice and boundless support have been instrumental in my own growth.
Joanne exemplifies all the criteria for this award:
Provides remarkable patient experience: By ensuring smooth patient flow and thoughtful staff assignments, Joanne contributes directly to a positive and efficient patient experience.
Provides extraordinary compassionate care: Joanne's caring nature extends to both patients and colleagues. She treats everyone with respect and empathy, creating a supportive atmosphere.
Honors the human spirit with dignity and respect: This is evident in all her interactions, fostering a sense of value and trust among patients and staff alike.
Role models excellence and teamwork: Joanne's dedication, work ethic, and collaborative spirit set a high standard for everyone around her.
Partners with team members to exceed patient and/or family expectations: Her ability to bring people together and work towards a common goal consistently results in exceptional patient care.
Joanne is a truly exceptional nurse and a deserving recipient of the DAISY Award. Her contributions to our team and the patients we serve are invaluable.
***
This nurse is truly exceptional in patient care and is the first person to give you help or advice with difficult scenarios. This nurse is truly an Emergency room nurse encyclopedia full of knowledge and is always willing to help with a smile on her face!