I am honored to nominate Stephanie Wintch for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award.  I met Stephanie five years ago when she presented her vision for a family-centered sedation program to the Family Centered Care Department.  Her passion for reducing unnecessary trauma in pediatric medicine was evident from the start.  She spoke with conviction and frequently sought feedback from our team of parents to ensure the service met the needs of patients and families. In 2023, I worked with Stephanie on a RITE project, Improving Referrals for Use of Sedation for Children Undergoing Procedures.  She led with a can-do attitude, strategic vision, and a collaborative spirit throughout the process.  She balanced efficiency and enthusiasm, always bringing a positive attitude and a clear focus on the children who would ultimately benefit.  Stephanie is an exceptional leader who blends clinical excellence, creativity, and a deep commitment to children.  She pays close attention to detail while remaining open to new ideas, continuously improving care quality and patient experience.  She understands that the best solutions come from collaboration, actively seeking input, and integrating innovative ideas into practice.  

Her leadership is not about maintaining the status quo but evolving care for the better.  One example is a 6-year-old patient who visits the hospital monthly for infusions.  While Stephanie manages the logistics to ensure safe, effective care, she and her team have also worked creatively to make his experience positive.  Over months, they collaborated with him and his parents to create a rocket ship adventure where everyone plays a role.  He wears a mask like his stuffed toy, breathing in nitrous as the team plays along with his fantasy of blasting off into space. This blend of sedation and imagination has turned a stressful medical experience into something manageable, even fun.  His parents are deeply grateful for the team's thoughtfulness and dedication.  

Since I joined the sedation team as a Parent Mentor a year ago, I have observed Stephanie navigate high-pressure situations with grit and grace.  She is a driven and effective leader who inspires her team to deliver their best work. Her leadership is a unique combination of behind-the-scenes efficiency and compassionate, patient-centered care at the bedside.  Her ability to listen extends beyond patient care- it informs her leadership, making her an advocate for her team and the families she serves.  

Time and again, I have found myself wishing that the sedation team, and especially Stephanie, had been in place when my daughter was receiving care at Packard.  The level of care, comfort, and reassurance she provides is extraordinary.  Stephanie exemplifies the attributes of a DAISY Nurse Leader. She models integrity, compassion, and professionalism while fostering a team culture of trust and excellence.  Her impact on staff and patients is immeasurable, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.