I am a nurse who currently works with Liz in the operating room at Aurora Medical Center in Kenosha. After witnessing an interaction between Liz and one of her surgery patients today, I immediately knew she deserved recognition. Liz exemplified the true meaning of the DAISY Award in this scenario.

Liz was interviewing her patient immediately before taking her back to the operating room. This patient had already spent hours waiting in the preoperative area because another surgeon was very delayed. Liz entered the room with confidence, confirmed the patient's identity, calmed her nerves by explaining the delay, and then took the time to introduce herself to the patient's family members.

After hearing her patient's concerns about the surgery and recovery, Liz was able to share her personal experience of a recent procedure, and based on her response, you could tell that her patient felt supported, empowered, and safe. Liz explained what the family could expect while waiting and even made sure that all were set up with the text update system, as it was expected to be a lengthy procedure. Further, the patient and her family requested that the surgical team pray with them before heading into the operating room, and nurse Liz located the surgeon to fulfill their request. As a witness, I could tell that this patient now trusted Liz and the team to take the best care of her, and she truly listened to her wants and needs.

Many times, teammates from the operating room and other procedural areas are sadly under-recognized as the nurse's time with them is short; however, Liz was a perfect example of what every nurse should aspire to be. She gave compassionate, empathetic, and respectful care to her patient during this encounter, as she always does.