Salwa Al-Khafaji, RN

I would like to nominate this RN for the DAISY Award in recognition of her outstanding clinical judgment, patient advocacy, and commitment to providing exceptional care during her shift. She quickly recognized subtle neurological changes that did not match the patient’s true baseline. Although there was uncertainty regarding the patient’s mental status, Salwa trusted her assessment and called RRT for a suspected stroke. She also called multiple RNs to confirm the baseline. Salwa called the patient’s son to verify the patient’s baseline mental status, confirmed the assessment, and provided critical information. Because Salwa was vigilant, demonstrated critical thinking, and was persistent, the patient received a prompt evaluation and intervention for an acute stroke. Salwa’s actions reflect the highest standards of the nursing profession and show the difference one nurse can make through clinical expertise, teamwork, and unwavering dedication to patient safety.