January 2022
Kristi L
Malli
,
RN
Surgical Acute
Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego
San Diego
,
CA
United States
Her reliability, humility, and commitment to excellence create a culture of trust around her.
Kristi is the recipient of the DAISY Award for exemplifying accountability, leadership, and steady compassion in every role she serves. With nearly a decade at Scripps, she has become a trusted anchor on the unit — a nurse whose professionalism and positivity elevate both patient care and team morale.

Kristi arrives prepared, focused, and ready to take on any assignment. She is known for maintaining a calm presence even in the most stressful situations, caring for critically ill patients with confidence while keeping the environment steady and supportive. Her sense of humor lightens the mood on the floor, helping both patients and staff feel at ease. She communicates openly, asks for assistance when needed, and remains flexible with assignments and admissions, always prioritizing safe and effective care.

As a preceptor, Kristi is a respected mentor and role model. New nurses and recent graduates look to her for knowledge, patience, and guidance. She willingly shares her experience, helping others build confidence and clinical skill. When serving as charge RN, Kristi functions as an extension of leadership, ensuring the unit runs smoothly. She manages high-pressure situations, resolves service concerns, and supports both staff and patients with fairness and efficiency.

Kristi’s work ethic has earned the admiration of her peers. She is a true team player who uses downtime to check in on colleagues and offer help. She minimizes conflict, treats everyone with respect, and supports the organization's goals and initiatives with openness to growth and change. Her reliability, humility, and commitment to excellence create a culture of trust around her.

Kristi embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award through leadership grounded in kindness. She strengthens the unit not only through clinical excellence but through generosity toward her team and unwavering dedication to her patients. Her presence makes the workplace better and patient care stronger every day.