Zyrine Evangelista, BSN, RN

Zyrine provided exceptional care. During my clinical rotation, I was paired with her and learned not only clinical skills but also what truly compassionate nursing looks like in practice. She consistently cared for her patients holistically, ensuring they received meals on time, had opportunities for hygiene care, were assisted with ambulation, and were never left without attention. She took time to explain medications in a way patients could understand, rounded frequently, and always checked on them more often when they needed emotional support. She was a fantastic nurse to learn from. She included me in all aspects of patient care, answered every question I had, and gave me guidance that helped build my confidence as a student nurse. She created an environment where I felt safe to learn and grow.

I still remember one particular situation that I will never forget. We were caring for a behavioral patient who became escalated and verbally aggressive. The patient directed his frustration toward staff and asked me to leave the room. As a student nurse, I felt scared and overwhelmed. Zyrine immediately stepped in and calmly redirected the situation. She gently held my hand, ensured I was safe, and professionally set boundaries with the patient. She remained calm, composed, and respectful, and de-escalated the situation without harming the patient, me, or the rest of the staff. In that moment, she showed me what true advocacy looks like, not only for patients, but also for students and new nurses still learning. That experience stayed with me.

During my training, I questioned whether I could continue in this profession, but learning alongside her reminded me of the kind of nurse I want to become. I later learned she is also a charge nurse on the unit, which made sense. She naturally leads with compassion and calmness. She supports not only patients but also staff, nursing assistants, and students. She brings positivity to the unit and often makes everyone around her smile, even during busy and stressful shifts. I feel very fortunate to have been paired with her. She impacted not only patients; she also deeply impacted me as a future nurse. She strengthened my confidence, shaped my perspective, and inspired me to continue this path. Zyrine truly deserves the DAISY Award, not only for the excellent care she provides to patients, but also for the lasting impact she has on the nurses she mentors. I aspire to be the kind of nurse she is.