Krsytal Gonzalez
January 2026
Krsytal
Gonzalez
,
BSN, RN
E1
St. Joseph's Children's Hospital
Tampa
,
FL
United States
Krystal knew exactly when to take charge and when to delegate, making sure that the team felt supported and confident in their roles.
I am honored to nominate my colleague for the DAISY Award, recognizing their exceptional leadership, compassion, and commitment to patient care. Having worked alongside Krystal for three years at our Children's Hospital, I've witnessed them consistently demonstrate extraordinary skill, professionalism, and empathy in every aspect of nursing practice. One instance that stands out, illustrating this person's exceptional abilities, occurred during a recent emergent situation with a pediatric patient. The patient's condition deteriorated rapidly, and the situation quickly became critical. Despite the urgency and pressure of the moment, Krystal's response was immediate and composed. They didn't hesitate, took charge of the situation and swiftly coordinated the teams actions to ensure the best possible care for the patient.

What I found most remarkable during this crisis was Krystal's ability to maintain clear and effective communication. In the midst of the chaos, this person was calm, focused, and articulate, providing precise directions to the entire team. This clear communication is crucial in high-pressure moments like these, and they handled it seamlessly. They didn't just tell people what to do; they made sure everyone understood why each action was necessary, which helped keep the team focused and working together in harmony.

This person's leadership was crucial during this situation. Their calm presence and decisive actions served as a stabilizing force for the team. As a nurse, their technical skills are top-notch, but it was their leadership and emotional intelligence that truly stood out. They ensured that each member of the team doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists was on the same page and working toward the same goal.

Krystal knew exactly when to take charge and when to delegate, making sure that the team felt supported and confident in their roles. What impressed me the most was how they handled not just the crisis, but the emotional dynamics of the situation. After the patient's condition stabilized, they took the time to check in with everyone, offering reassurance and support. Their compassion for both patients and colleagues is evident in every interaction, and this situation was no different. Krystal made sure that everyone felt heard and valued, regardless of experience level, which is a rare and invaluable quality in a leader. In addition to their exceptional crisis management, this person has proven themself to be an outstanding preceptor for new nurses.

Krystal has a natural ability to teach and mentor, offering guidance, encouragement, and expertise to help new staff feel supported and confident in their roles. I've witnessed firsthand how they patiently answer questions, offer constructive feedback, and encourage growth, all while maintaining a positive and approachable demeanor. They go above and beyond to ensure new nurses are set up for success and feel like they truly belong to the team.

Having worked alongside this person for the past three years, I can confidently say they are the epitome of what it means to be a compassionate, skilled, and effective nurse. Krystal is always willing to lend a hand, offer support, and provide guidance, no matter what the situation. Their unwavering dedication to their patients and colleagues is an inspiration. I wholeheartedly nominate them for the DAISY Award. They have made a lasting impact on our team.