Jean Larson honored with DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses

Jean Larson, RN, of Radiology Nursing at Christiana Care, received the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses for February 2018.

Christiana Care DAISY Award recipients are nurses recognized for meeting and exceeding the needs and expectations of patients and families by displaying exceptional clinical skills, compassion, respect and partnership. This DAISY nomination came from the husband of patient who came to the Radiology team at Christiana Care for a biopsy procedure.

“The entire team served my wife as their neighbor with the highest levels of compassion and excellence,” the nomination said. “However, one nurse took the time to take the experience from good to great. There are books written about how to do that, and Jean Larson must have read every one of them.

“She helped evaporate the anxiety, nerves and discomfort that go with being in a hospital for a procedure. Jean’s effervescent personality, positive attitude, sincerity and willingness to admit if there was something she didn’t know — and then find the person who could get the answer for my wife — made the visit as perfect as possible.

“Jean paid close attention and took extra steps to ensure our comfort. Things like introducing herself to my wife and to me (the nervous family member) and making sure the curtain was closed for the best privacy were done effortlessly and appreciated.

“After the procedure that followed a day of fasting, Jean made sure my wife had a snack and beverage. She was a gracious host in helping us pass the time while we waited for discharge. I have to think that if everyone at Christiana Care is as sweet and generous with their time and as kind and respectful as Jean, Christiana Care will find it EASY to keep their Magnet designation, which recognizes nursing excellence.

“I really appreciate the entire experience, from check-in with Radiology all the way through to the wheelchair ride to the front door. Every step of the way was performed in a pleasant and comforting manner that helped allay my wife’s nervousness, set her at ease, and helped us move through this trial.

“Thanks, and please express our appreciation to Jean and the entire staff in Prep and Hold who were so kind.”

Established in 1999, the family of J. Patrick Barnes created the DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award to honor his memory with a tribute to the skillful and compassionate care he received from his nurses during his hospitalization. Today, more than 2,500 health care facilities in every state and 15 countries honor nurses with the DAISY Award.

The Professional Nurse Council at Christiana Care selects DAISY Award recipients using a blind selection process based on nominations from patients, families and all members of the Christiana Care team. All nurses — inpatient, outpatient and VNA — are eligible.