Connect

Petter Norrlof approached the situation with "compassion and a unique ability to connect." 

The Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center nurses each month with a DAISY Award. UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and DAISY Award Committee Chair Leanne Davis, RN, surprised Nils Petter Norrlof, RN, Wound Ostomy Care, with an award.

Kathleen Rea, DNP, RN, ACNS-BC, PCCN, CNL, nominated Norrlof:

"Petter worked with a young male patient who had experienced a major trauma that included broken limbs and a diverting ileostomy. This patient was struggling to manage his new ileostomy due to being unhoused and an injured hand. He had to be readmitted for complications.

"Upon his readmission, he was understandably angry and frustrated. The patient's circumstances had left him feeling overwhelmed and powerless. Petter approached the situation with compassion and a unique ability to connect. He understood that addressing the emotional state was as crucial as teaching him the technical aspects of ostomy care. Petter employed humor and kindness to break the ice. He engaged the patient in conversations that lightened the mood, allowing him to feel more at ease. By setting small, achievable goals — Petter empowered him to take ownership of his care. Each step forward — no matter how minor — was celebrated, helping to build confidence.

"Petter also was honest and straightforward in addressing really hard family dynamics and the debilitating impact of the patient's anger on decision making. Recognizing the need for a collaborative approach, Petter worked closely with the occupational therapist and bedside nurses to develop a tailored plan. Together, they adapted techniques to optimize use of the injured hand, allowing the patient to learn how to empty and pouch his ostomy independently.

"The focus on offering choices — whether it was selecting the supplies or determining the best way to perform each task — further enhanced the patient's sense of control over his health and he made remarkable progress. He moved from being an angry, anxious patient to an individual ready to manage his own ostomy.

"Thanks to Petter's leadership and dedication, the patient was able to safely leave the hospital. He was discharged to home with extended family rather than a shelter for the unhoused. This not only addressed his physical health but also set the foundation for his emotional and social well-being. Petter's compassion and commitment to connecting with the patient, collaborating with the healthcare team, and fostering autonomy made a profound difference in this patient's life. Petter inspired our whole team with this example of exceptional, empathetic, and effective nursing!" 

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"DAISY" stands for "Diseases Attacking the Immune System." The DAISY Award was established by The DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at the age of only 33 of an autoimmune disease. The Barnes Family was awestruck by the clinical skills, caring, and compassion of his nurses, so they created this national award to thank nurses everywhere.

At UVA Health University Medical Center — patients or their families, visitors, and team members may submit a DAISY Award nomination.