Connect

Emily Faitsch, RN, Medical Intensive Care Unit, formerly of the Nerancy Neuro ICU (NNICU), recently connected with one of her patients by listening to the patient’s needs and creating a bond. The patient’s husband was impressed by Emily’s natural ability to connect with his wife and wanted to make sure she was recognized. He nominated Emily for a DAISY Award, which she recently received in a surprise ceremony with Mary Dixon, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, and the DAISY Award Committee. Read the full story in the nomination below.

“There are not enough words to describe how wonderful Emily F. in the NNICU was during my wife’s stay. My wife had a 13-hour brain-stem surgery to remove several tumors.

“Emily was her primary nurse during the day shifts. Emily was always proactive with my wife – stopping to check in on her health, progress, and just general well-being. In several specific events that I witnessed, Emily made sure to stop and listen to my wife’s concerns.

“My wife had several panic attacks during her stay, but Emily addressed each one seriously and with genuine concern and always tried to find ways to get her calm and keep her calm. My wife adored Emily and trusted her as did I.

“In another specific incident, Emily took time to speak to me and ask specific questions about my wife’s health and was open to tips and information that might assist her in providing the best care possible for her (e.g., speaking to her on her left side versus her right side since she's deaf in the right ear).

“What impressed me the most was the personal connection she made with the both of us. She always enjoyed listening to my wife talk about our toy poodle and enjoyed listening about her hobbies, like crafting. Emily didn't just ask because she had to; she asked because she really cared, and it showed when Emily periodically asked about certain things when she came into the room. Emily remembered because she cared about my wife.

“The way she communicated to my wife was also above and beyond. When my wife couldn't understand her because of the hearing loss, she used nonverbals and/or asked for help from me or another nurse. Emily didn't just settle, thinking that my wife understood. She checked for understanding. I was very impressed. There are always certain people you can speak to and know their hearts are pure, and they are truly created for a profession. Emily F. was created to be a nurse and to serve her patients.

“I highly recommend Emily for this award, and I would welcome any additional questions, comments, concerns, or even the opportunity to be part of presenting her with this award. That is how impressed I was with her as a nurse.”

Nomination edited for clarity.

Know a fabulous nurse?
The Professional Nursing Staff Organization honors up to two UVA RNs each month with a DAISY Award. Nominations may be submitted by patients, patient families, visitors, and fellow UVA team members. Learn more at uvadaisy.com.