Blake Smith Is July DAISY Award Winner

Blake Smith, BSN, RN, from Progressive Care at Methodist Hospital, was honored at a recognition ceremony on Thursday, July 28, as the July DAISY Award winner for Methodist Hospital and Methodist Women's Hospital.

He was nominated for the honor by the core nurse on duty, who outlined the many ways Blake went above and beyond to care for a patient at the end of life.

The patient, "who was steadfastly opposed to making any life choice that would improve his health,"  had an especially challenging combination of medical, emotional and family issues. At this critical time, the patient lacked positive family support. The actions of the patient's spouse, who was dealing unsuccessfully and publicly with her own issues, only deepened the patient's already negative attitude and unwillingness to work collaboratively with his care team. 

Blake worked hard to build rapport with the patient, who routinely rebuffed team members' efforts over the months-long hospital stay.

After many setbacks and frustrations, the patient's health had deteriorated to the point where he couldn't be off a BiPAP breathing machine for more than a few moments. The patient told Blake,  "I've had enough. I can't live like this anymore."

Blake, along with the palliative care team, had talked extensively with the patient about goals of care. Blake talked in greater detail with the patient to clarify his wishes before contacting the patient's physicians. At the patient's request, a comfort care regimen was introduced that allowed for removal of the breathing machine, with appropriate medications to reduce air hunger, ease anxiety and eliminate pain at the end of life.

There were multiple complications for the patient on the day he passed away. The care team worked closely to ensure the best care was provided to him and to all patients on the unit, while Blake stayed at the patient's side.

The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards and celebrates extraordinary skill and compassionate care given by nurses every day. Nurses can be nominated by anyone, including patients, family members, physicians, supervisors or their peers.

To nominate a nurse at Methodist Hospital or Methodist Women’s Hospital, visit www.bestcare.org/daisy.