Illini Community Hospital registered nurse Lexy Ghrist says watching her best friend raise a child with Down Syndrome shaped her approach to nursing. It also led her to receive an international DAISY Award. The award recognizes extraordinary nurses who make a difference in the lives of people by the work they do every day.
Lexy, a Surgery department caregiver, became Blessing Health System’s 110th DAISY Award winner during a surprise ceremony on Monday, June 30.
She received two DAISY award nominations for care provided to special needs patients. The first nomination involved a patient who needed to have sutures removed. The nomination read, in part: “The patient, who was expected to need sedation for this procedure, was made to feel completely at ease and comfortable through Lexy's patient-centered approach. With an extraordinary level of compassion, she took the time to engage with the patient in a way that met them where they were emotionally and cognitively.
Lexy demonstrated incredible patience, explaining the process in simple, reassuring terms and taking the time to listen to the patient's concerns, ensuring they felt heard and respected.
What truly stood out was her ability to make the patient comfortable enough to be able to undergo this procedure without sedation. By carefully gauging the patient's comfort level and providing calm, gentle support throughout the entire procedure, Lexy made a potentially stressful experience manageable.”
The second nomination highlighted Lexy’s care of a person with Autism. The nomination read in part: “The patient was visibly uncomfortable with physical touch, which posed a challenge during the pre-operative process. Rather than proceeding in a way that might cause distress, Lexy immediately recognized the patient's discomfort and took the time to communicate with them in a calm and respectful manner.
Understanding the patient's need for autonomy and personal space, Lexy provided a clear and gentle explanation of the procedure. When it came time to shave a small area on the patient's leg to prepare for surgery, Lexy gave the patient the option to do it themselves, empowering them and respecting their boundaries.
This simple yet profound act of empathy and respect had a lasting impact on the patient and their family. Lexy not only ensured that the patient's medical needs were met but also made them feel heard, respected, and safe in a situation that could have been overwhelming. Lexy exemplifies the very best of nursing.”
“I try to see beyond the challenges and recognize the unique person in my care,” Lexy explained. “It’s not just about providing care. It’s about forming a connection rooted in respect, patience, and dignity.”
DAISY stands for “Diseases Attacking the Immune System.” The family of a 33-year-old man, who died of an immune system disorder, began the program in 1999 to honor his memory. More than 5,400 healthcare providers and nursing education programs worldwide participate in the DAISY Award program.
DAISY award nomination forms are on the internet at blessinghealth.org/recognize.