Karla Hasben Honored with DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses

Karla Hasben, ADN, RN-BC, a psychiatric-mental health nurse specialist with Wilmington Hospital’s inpatient Psychiatry unit, received the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses in November 2020.

The DAISY nomination is from a patient who came to ChristianaCare for psychiatric care. During her week-long stay the patient was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism, which can have profound effects on mental health. Her nomination described Hasben’s compassionate, informative, attentive care.

Hasben took the time to explain the new diagnosis and provided educational materials to help her patient understand the condition. Anticipating her patient’s need for rest, the nurse prepped for nighttime care while the patient slept, gently woke her and quickly, quietly gave her the medication she needed. Hasben motivated her patient to muster energy and get care.

“On the days I didn’t want to get out of bed she encouraged me to go to group therapy, telling me that not only did my peers need my support but I needed them too. She encouraged me to take short walks and talked to me when I needed someone to talk to.

“She understood me, understood what I was going through, was patient, honest and funny … please give her my love and tell her thank you for being not only the best nurse but an awesome, caring and loving person.”

The Professional Nurse Council at ChristianaCare selects DAISY Award recipients using an anonymous process based on nominations from patients, families and all members of the ChristianaCare team. All nurses — inpatient, outpatient and ChristianaCare HomeHealth — are eligible.

Nominate a ChristianaCare nurse for a DAISY Award.