DAISY’s deviation made all the difference

Going to the hospital can be scary, especially when you’ve had a negative experience in the past. Lacey Edie, RN, with the Bloomington Radiology team, was nominated for her DAISY Award for her efforts to make an anxious patient’s rescheduled appointment a positive experience.

Edie was at the first appointment, and when she saw them on the schedule for a second attempt, she called to check in and tell the patient she would be on the case to assist and had a room ready for her recovery period.

“As a small team of just six nurses, we are often called upon to advocate for our patients and their families,” says Edie. “In this particular case, the primary charge nurse was present for both of the patient’s scheduled appointments and was well aware of the anxiety the patient experienced surrounding her care.”

Edie spoke to the interventional radiologist, Dr. Brackett, who immediately offered his support to ensure the patient received this case, which deviated from standard protocol.

“I arrived for my procedure and Lacey took me back, which was very comforting,” says the patient. “Everyone was so patient and kind and was awesome at talking me through it.”

The individual continued to describe how Edie supported them physically and mentally, and how they didn’t know if they would have made it through the procedure without her.

“Lacey was very friendly, and I was reassured by her smile,” says the unnamed patient and nominator. “She made me feel at ease and comfortable.”

“The most important thing for nurses to know is how to treat every patient with compassion, dignity, and respect—because healing starts with human connection,” says Edie.

The skilled nurse also emphasizes the importance of her team for support, strength, insight and collaboration.

Edie says, “We face challenges together, celebrate wins together, and lift each other up when things get tough. It’s in those moments—when we lean on each other—that I’m reminded how essential teamwork is to both patient care and personal growth. Being part of a team makes me feel connected, capable and proud of the work we do.”