Steven Hembree honored for exceptional care of a fellow nurse

Hembree’s patient experienced “an unimaginable crisis,” resulting in a six-week hospitalization at Methodist—but Hembree was a source of hope.

In a matter of hours, a healthy mother and nurse practitioner (NP) became a critically ill patient. This patient was admitted to IU Health Methodist Hospital, on Cardiac Medical Critical Care 4E, and Steven Hembree, RN, began working as this patient’s nurse.

This unexpected hospitalization left the patient’s family feeling stunned, terrified and completely unprepared. During this “unimaginable crisis,” as they described it, Hembree recognized what the family needed. His calming words and steady presence provided immense comfort to the patient’s family—while he was also managing the complex, life-saving care needed for their loved one.

After six weeks in the hospital, and a year-long recovery afterwards, this patient recently returned to Methodist Hospital to recognize the nurse who she credits with helping to save her life.

With his former patient by his side, while surrounded by his colleagues, Steven Hembree was celebrated with a DAISY Award. His nomination was written by this former patient.

“Steven's presence, compassion and professionalism were a constant source of strength and reassurance,” the patient wrote in her nomination. “I can never adequately express my gratitude for what he did, not only for saving my life, but for the profound and lasting impact he made on my family. His care extended far beyond the bedside and reached the hearts of those I love most.”

“I would be honored to nominate Steven for the DAISY Award, because he exemplifies everything nurses should strive to be,” she wrote. “Professional, kind, empathetic, dedicated, clinically proficient, an educator, and an unwavering supporter of patients and their families.”

Congratulations to Steven Hembree for receiving this heartfelt honor, from a patient and fellow nurse whose life was forever changed by his care. Hembree’s DAISY Award win represents not only the exceptional kindness and nursing skill demonstrated for this particular patient, but every patient he cares for. Leave a kudos in the comments to recognize Hembree’s great work.