June 2025
Vania
Haughton
,
BSN RN
NICU
Inova Alexandria Hospital
Alexandria
,
VA
United States

 

 

 

She modeled what it means to be an advocate for both the patients and their loved ones, showing me how nursing extends far beyond tasks—it is about connection, trust, and compassion.
As a nursing student, I had the incredible opportunity to learn from Vania Haughton in the NICU, where I witnessed firsthand her exceptional patient care and dedication to her tiny, vulnerable patients. From the moment I stepped onto the unit, she welcomed me with patience and enthusiasm, eager to share her knowledge and passion for neonatal nursing. 

Vania consistently treated every infant as if they were her own, demonstrating not only clinical excellence but also deep compassion. She took the time to teach me the importance of gentle, developmentally appropriate care, explaining each intervention while ensuring the comfort and well-being of her patients. Whether she was adjusting an infant’s positioning, administering medications, or simply offering a reassuring touch, every action she took was done with kindness and expertise. 

Beyond her technical skills, Vania also provided unwavering support to families, offering education, reassurance, and empathy during some of their most challenging moments. She modeled what it means to be an advocate for both the patients and their loved ones, showing me how nursing extends far beyond tasks—it is about connection, trust, and compassion. Her mentorship not only shaped my learning experience but also inspired me to become the best nurse I can be. Vania embodies the true spirit of the DAISY Award, and I am honored to have learned from her example. 

Vania is an extraordinary nurse whose passion for neonatal care goes beyond skill. She brings warmth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to every patient and family she encounters. What makes her truly special is the way she treats every baby in the NICU as if they were her own, providing not just medical care but also love, comfort, and security. Her ability to balance expert clinical care with deep compassion is inspiring. She is patient, kind, and always willing to teach, ensuring that not only her patients receive the best care but also that future nurses, like myself, learn how to provide the same level of excellence. 

She made me feel valued and capable, taking the time to explain procedures, answer my questions, and encourage my growth as a nursing student. Beyond her knowledge and technical skills, Vania has a gift for connecting with families during what is often the most difficult time in their lives. She reassures worried parents, educates them with patience, and advocates tirelessly for her tiny patients. Her presence in the NICU brings a sense of calm and hope, and her kindness leaves a lasting impact on everyone around her. Vania embodies the heart of nursing. She is not only a skilled professional but also a compassionate caregiver, a dedicated mentor, and an incredible human being. It is an honor to have learned from her.