Eric Kapitbahay, RN, BSN, works on the 7 South Dialysis unit of Vanderbilt University Hospital. He is one of the latest DAISY Award winners at VUMC.
From the nomination
“During her first day of dialysis, Eric connected with my mom through kindness, compassion, and empathy. His conversation and care with my mom helped her to feel empowered, something she felt she lost. We watched her eyes brighten as he educated her on the dialysis process and importance of dietary modifications and adherence to the dialysis regimen. We listened as he used words that were comprehensible to her, not a lot of medical jargon. Eric’s professionalism and commitment to personalizing my mom’s education exceeded our expectations. He was cognizant of her apprehension to this new treatment and reassured her of his commitment to make her his priority during the day’s session. He went on to educate the family to better support my mom in her goals for treatment. Eric soared above what we expected and delivered holistic care (mind, body and soul). He has been instrumental in reinvigorating my mom’s control over her health.”
About DAISY Awards
The DAISY Award is a recognition for extraordinary nurses who exemplify compassion toward patients and families.
VUMC distributes the award in partnership with The DAISY Foundation, which was formed in 1999 to honor the memory of J. Patrick Barnes, a 33-year-old man who died of complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). Barnes’ family was moved by the care they received from his nurses and wanted to recognize them to preserve his memory. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.
VUMC nurse committees determine the individual recipients. Previous recipients of the DAISY Award are here. The award is open to all licensed nurses, and anyone can nominate — including co-workers, patients and their families. Nominations may be made here.
