SGMC Health recognized Justin Parks with the May DAISY Award for extraordinary nursing. Parks was honored for going above and beyond for a patient and family during end-of-life care.
According to the nomination, the family made the decision to withdraw intervention and begin comfort care. When the patient’s ventilator was removed, he asked to go outside. Considering his condition and placement in ICU, the family did not think this would be possible. However, Parks took the initiative to fulfill the patient’s last request and bring him outside.
“Seeing the look on my dad’s face will be a memory I cherish, and I wouldn’t have that without Justin’s diligence in making it happen,” shared the patient’s son.
He goes on to describe how Parks provided extraordinary care throughout his father’s stay. This included answering the family’s questions, being a source of support, and ensuring his dad had everything he needed.
“I am so grateful for his compassion and care,” he added.
SGMC Health continues to ask patients and fellow employees to honor nurses they feel go above and beyond in their actions and care. Nominations are reviewed by a committee based on criteria that include compassion, teamwork, leadership, attitude, skills, and knowledge.
DAISY awards are presented monthly in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors. Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” They also receive a beautiful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa. A special floral arrangement of daisies was generously donated by The Flower Gallery, the local sponsor of SGMC Health’s DAISY Award.
To nominate a nurse for the DAISY award, visit sgmc.org/daisy.
