The Float Pool Team at The University of Kansas Health System Legacy Campus is more than a group of nurses-they are a lifeline, a stabilizing force, and a shining example of compassionate care in action. With 125 dedicated registered nurses, many of whom are cross-trained in multiple specialties, this extraordinary team brings skill, heart, and adaptability to every corner of our Main Campus. Whether stepping into a bustling ICU, a pediatric unit, or a procedural area, they do so with grace, confidence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Their reach is remarkable. The Float Pool Team supports 44 departments and specialties across Cambridge Tower (CA), Heart Center, and Bell Hospital (BH)--including the Emergency Department, all 23 acute care medical-surgical and telemetry units, inpatient Rehab Medicine, Mom/Baby, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Pediatrics, and all 9 adult inpatient Intensive Care Units. They also serve procedural areas such as inpatient Dialysis, Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Interventional Radiology, and Cardiovascular Lab, BH, and CA Pre/Post areas, and are the primary staff for our "Short Stay" areas like CA3 Pre/Post, BH2 Pre/Post, Pediatrics, and BH18.

Their ability to seamlessly integrate into these diverse environments is a testament to their clinical expertise and deep sense of teamwork. But what truly sets them apart is their spirit. In moments of crisis-whether during staffing shortages, patient surges, or system-wide challenges-the Float Pool Team shows up. They bring calm to chaos, support to overwhelmed units, and compassion to every patient encounter.

A significant portion of the team is cross-trained, ensuring a highly adaptable workforce capable of responding swiftly and effectively to evolving needs across multiple areas. Their innovative approach to staffing non-traditional care areas has improved patient flow and enhanced the care experience for countless patients. Their impact is felt not just in metrics, but in moments.

Patients and staff alike speak of their kindness, their professionalism, and their ability to make even the most difficult days manageable. Our dedicated team members continue to shine, earning numerous DAISY Award nominations and winning multiple Excellence Awards. Departments consistently express high satisfaction with the exceptional support provided by the Float Pool team, reinforcing its vital role in our success. Many nurses have grown into leadership and specialty roles, a reflection of the team's culture of excellence and mentorship.

The Float Pool Team embodies everything the DAISY Team Award stands for: compassion, collaboration, and extraordinary nursing care. They are the quiet heroes behind the scenes, the steady hands in times of need, and the heart of our health system. For their tireless dedication, their unmatched versatility, and their profound impact on patients and colleagues alike, the Float Pool Team is truly deserving of this honor.

It is with deep pride and admiration that I nominate the Float Pool Team for the DAISY Team Award in recognition of their exceptional contributions to our health system. This extraordinary group of nurses has consistently demonstrated what it means to serve with excellence, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Across Procedural areas, Acute Care, Maternal Child, and Critical Care divisions, the Float Pool Team has become a pillar of strength and support, stepping in wherever they are needed most, often at a moment's notice, and always with grace.

The Float Pool Team embodies the highest standards of clinical excellence, adaptability, and resilience. Their steadfast commitment to patient care and team collaboration makes them an indispensable part of our organization. Whether responding to critical staffing shortages, surges in patient volume, or supporting specialized units with complex care needs, the Float Pool team consistently rises to the occasion with professionalism, compassion, and a spirit of unity.

During times of crisis, including seasonal surges, staffing challenges, and public health emergencies, the Float Pool team has played a pivotal role in maintaining safe staffing ratios and preventing burnout among unit staff. During a COVID-19 outbreak that affected several staff members in the Med-Surg and Telemetry units, the Float Pool team quickly mobilized to fill critical gaps. Their flexibility and readiness ensured that patient care continued uninterrupted, and unit staff were able to take necessary sick leave without compromising safety. This swift response helped prevent staff exhaustion and maintained high standards of care during a challenging time.

Their efforts have directly contributed to improved patient outcomes and enhanced staff morale. Notably, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the team organized and staffed screening and temperature checkpoints across multiple entrances and partnered with Infection Prevention and Control to ensure adherence to safety protocols through unit rounding and education.

The Float Pool Team is often the unsung hero behind the scenes, yet their influence is felt in every corner of our health system. They are the "go-to" resource for both anticipated and emergent staffing needs. Their flexibility, clinical expertise, and positive attitudes make them invaluable in cross-training initiatives and in supporting specialty units.

Their contributions were especially evident during the opening of the 8th and 10th Oncology floors in Cambridge Tower and BH42 (Med Surg) in February 2022, where they not only provided staffing support but also assumed leadership roles as relief charge nurses. Their impact continued during critical staffing shortages on BH46, where they seamlessly integrated into the unit, providing both staffing and leadership support.

In November 2023, as the health system transitioned away from agency nurses, the Float Pool team played a key role in sustaining staffing levels, maintaining a robust team of over 100 RNs since 2021.

But perhaps the most powerful testament to their impact comes from the voices of our patients. One patient shared: "Those amazing, kindhearted, caring, and helpful nurses I had have me telling everyone I know about them. They really made me feel heard and cared for. I did not notice I was alone in the hospital because of how everyone treated me. If I could give Hannah S, Cheyanne C, Silvia A, Rachel P, Sharae S, Morgan B, Kay B, and Rhianna B awards for their work, I would. Keep being awesome, ladies!"

Another patient from BH2PP wrote: "My day nurse, Tempistt, was phenomenal. Caring, professional, and just a really sweet lady. She always had some time to chat and got to know my family, too."

These words reflect the heart of nursing-the ability to make someone feel seen, heard, and cared for, even in their most vulnerable moments.

Rebecca Moburg, Vice President of Culture, shared a moving story about a patient who was admitted to the health system briefly in December for a urology surgery. Months later, he still remembered each nurse by name, saying he was "so pleased with everything and everybody." Rebecca noted: ''The impact you made on him was so profound that he has kept your names on his mind and in his heart for four months-that really says something. You delighted this patient, and that is exactly what we should all be trying to do for those around us every day."

Another example of their dedication occurred in August 2025, when Tony Kariuki, Critical Care Resource Nurse, was commended by the Radiology Operations Manager for his outstanding support during a CT equipment outage. Tony took on the majority of ICU patient transports, ensuring continuity of care and smooth departmental operations. His professionalism, grace, and positive demeanor exemplify the values of the Float Pool team.

In Maternal Child, Tammy, RN, became a true lifesaver during a night of extreme staffing shortages. Without hesitation, she took on an adult, pediatric, and NICU patient to help balance the unit. Her flexibility and calm under pressure were instrumental. As one team member put it, ''Tammy truly saved us all-we could not have pulled it off without her!"

The Float Pool Team is more than a staffing solution-they are a source of hope, healing, and humanity. Their contributions have strengthened our health system and uplifted every team they've supported. Their ability to adapt, lead, and care with excellence makes them truly deserving of the DAISY Team Award. They remind us all of the profound difference a nurse can make-not just in a shift, but in a life.

The Float Pool Team is a shining example of excellence, adaptability, and compassion within our health system. Seamlessly integrating into a wide range of clinical environments-from medical-surgical and telemetry units to maternal-child, intensive care, and emergency departments-they ensure continuity of care and uphold the highest standards, no matter the setting. Their ability to quickly acclimate to diverse workflows and patient populations speaks volumes about their clinical agility and unwavering dedication.

Each member of the Float Pool Team brings a broad skill set and a deep commitment to lifelong learning. Their cross-training allows them to step into unfamiliar environments with confidence and competence, often serving as the bridge that holds units together during times of need. Whether responding to surges in patient volume or supporting newly integrated campuses, this team consistently rises to the occasion.

When our system faced unprecedented capacity challenges in late 2020 and early 2021, Float Pool nurses floated to the Indian Creek campus to ensure patients received the care they deserved. Similarly, when TUKHS acquired the Olathe campus, they cross-trained and stepped in to support staffing transitions with grace and professionalism.

In addition to their clinical versatility, the Float Pool Team is often called upon to assist with precepting both new graduate and experienced nurses-especially when units are unable to accommodate onboarding needs. Their ability to mentor across specialties and settings ensures that new team members receive the guidance and support they need to thrive. This speaks not only to their clinical expertise but also to their generosity of spirit and commitment to the future of nursing.

Their impact is not only felt in their clinical contributions but also in the lives they touch. Dawn Coleman, RN, has been a cornerstone of the Float Pool for 28 years. Cross-trained in nearly every specialty-from NICU to critical care to the emergency department-Dawn exemplifies what it means to be a versatile and compassionate nurse.

In June, she received heartfelt kudos for buying a patient dinner out of her own pocket, a simple yet powerful act of kindness. In July 2022, Dawn's vigilance earned her the Good Catch Award when she identified a potentially fatal medication stocking error. Her attention to detail prevented harm not only to her patient but to others across the system, showcasing her commitment to safety and excellence.

Olubukola Faseru, RN, has served in the Float Pool for 10 of her 13 years in the health system. Her dedication left a lasting impression on a heart transplant patient, who returned post-discharge with a personalized gift basket and a note that read, ''Thank you for your amazing care and for always putting your patients first. You are truly appreciated!"

Moments like these reflect the deep compassion and connection that Float Pool nurses bring to every shift.

Samuel Mbatha, RN, has been with the Float Pool for 8 of his 9 years at the health system. In July 2025, while walking through the Bell hospital lobby, he was flagged down by a visitor who witnessed a woman collapse outside the main entrance with a gunshot wound. Samuel immediately responded, initiated care, and called for a rapid response. His quick thinking and calm under pressure made a life-saving difference and exemplified the courage and readiness that define this team.

One evening on BH15, Makayla, RN, and Rhianna, RN were preparing a patient for an MRI who was receiving TPN with high levels of dextrose. Despite reassurances from multiple departments, including MRI, pharmacy, and the physician, that it was safe to stop the TPN, they felt uneasy. Trusting their instincts, they escalated the concern and advocated for an order to start DlO instead. Their vigilance prevented a potentially dangerous case of rebound hypoglycemia.

As Dietician Specialist Jennifer Forristal emphasized, "He could have had terrible rebound hypoglycemia" had it not been for their great catch.

On BH61, Ryan, RN, and Rachel, RN, floated in and immediately became vital members of the team during a rapidly declining admission. Ryan stood ready at the doorway, grabbing supplies and ensuring emergent blood was checked and available. Rachel jumped in wherever needed, administering medications, assisting with tasks, and even stepping in so a fellow nurse could take a moment to pump.

As Moira S. shared, "Rachel made herself available so I could go pump, and I can't thank her enough for looking out for me like that."

Their teamwork and compassion made a lasting impression.

The Float Pool Team is also known for its unwavering support of colleagues. Bilal Williams, Acute Care Resource Nurse, received a shout-out in May 2025 for assisting BH46 during four consecutive admissions. His willingness to step in during a hectic shift ensured smoother transitions and alleviated the workload for the nursing staff. Bilal's teamwork and dedication made a meaningful impact on both patients and peers.

Even newer members of the team are making waves. Anna Sump, RN, joined Float Pool in 2023 as a new graduate and quickly became a leader in education. She now helps instruct the RN skills class for new hires and serves as a residency facilitator. In August 2025, Anna was honored with the Phenomenal Facilitator Award, a testament to her passion for mentorship and shared learning.

Beyond their clinical expertise, the Float Pool Team fosters a culture of unity, empathy, and service. Though they may care for patients only once during a hospital stay, their impact is lasting. They are known across units as resourceful, dependable, and deeply committed to both patient care and team collaboration. Their presence brings calm in chaos, strength in uncertainty, and compassion in every interaction.

The Float Pool Team embodies the spirit of the DAISY Team Award. Their courage, kindness, and excellence ripple across our health system, touching lives in ways that are both profound and unforgettable. They are not just a team-they are a lifeline, a source of inspiration, and a testament to what nursing is all about.

The Float Pool Team exemplifies clinical excellence and an unwavering commitment to patient safety. Their mastery of the Barcode Medication Administration (BCMA) technology ensures every medication is delivered with precision, consistently upholding the "5 Rights" of medication administration: the right patient, medication, dose, route, and time.

Since July 2023, the team has maintained an extraordinary BCMA compliance rate of 99.93%, a reflection of their meticulous attention to detail and relentless pursuit of safety. In Quarter 4 of Fiscal Year 2025 alone, they scanned an astounding 141,136 medications-nearly double that of any inpatient unit-while sustaining near-perfect compliance. Even more impressively, 58 Float Pool RNs achieved a flawless 100% scanning rate for the entire fiscal year.

These achievements are not just numbers; they are a testament to the team's integrity, vigilance, and deep-rooted dedication to delivering the safest care possible. Their efforts elevate the standard of nursing practice and embody the spirit of the DAISY Award.

Excellence in healthcare often shines brightest in the most unexpected places. Our "short stay" areas-CA3 Pre/Post and BH2 Pre/Post-may not be ideal patient rooms, but the Float Pool Team transforms these transitional spaces into environments of comfort, dignity, and healing. Their unwavering commitment to patient-centered care ensures that every individual feels seen, supported, and safe, regardless of the setting.

In early 2024, Float Pool leadership launched a bold initiative to enhance patient satisfaction in these units. After analyzing patient feedback and satisfaction scores from the previous year, several key areas for improvement emerged: patients felt uninformed about the units, lacked access to basic comfort items, and experienced confusion around discharge medication instructions.

Rather than viewing these challenges as obstacles, the Float Pool Team saw them as opportunities to innovate and improve. With compassion and creativity, the team developed comprehensive admission packets and comfort kits designed to empower and reassure patients.

These packets contained essential information, including unit details, visitor guidelines, parking instructions, snack lists, cafeteria hours, escalation pathways for concerns, and QR codes for DAISY and Sunflower nominations. They also introduced and encouraged completion of the feedback survey received post-discharge.

The comfort kits were thoughtfully curated with sleep masks, earplugs, headphones, toothbrushes, toothpaste, Chapstick, and tissues-small items that make a big difference in patient comfort and dignity.

Once briefed on the feedback and improvement plan, the Float Pool Team leaned in wholeheartedly. Education was provided around discharge communication, and the team embraced the challenge with professionalism and heart. Their response was swift, intentional, and deeply reflective of their shared commitment to excellence.

The results speak volumes. From January to December 2024, patient satisfaction scores rose by 13%, survey response rates surged by 157%, and clarity around discharge medication improved by 7%. These remarkable gains are a direct result of the Float Pool Team's dedication, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of better patient experiences.

Yet, the true impact of the Float Pool Team goes beyond metrics. They don't just fill staffing gaps-they elevate care. They bring stability to unfamiliar environments, compassion to every interaction, and excellence to every shift. Their resilience, teamwork, and leadership are the backbone of our health system, and their influence is felt far beyond the units they serve.

No other team rises to challenges quite like Float Pool. For their innovation, their heart, and their unwavering commitment to our mission, the Float Pool Team is profoundly deserving of the DAISY Team Award.