Bridgette Montrose, RN, a Staff Nurse on the Oncology floor, was recently named a DAISY Award Recipient for McLeod Regional Medical Center. Bridgette was nominated by a patient’s family member for her extraordinary care and compassion.

To recognize those Nurses at McLeod Regional Medical Center who are true examples of Nursing Excellence, patients, family members and co-workers may nominate nurses for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the superhuman efforts nurses perform every day.

The nomination form read, “My mother has advanced-stage pancreatic cancer, and each hospital admission brings uncertainty and fear for our family. During one of her most difficult stays, my mom was experiencing excruciating pain and overwhelming anxiety. Her nurse made all the difference.

“From the moment Bridgette entered the room, she was attentive, compassionate and consistently present. She checked on my mom frequently, never waiting for us to ask, and made sure her pain was addressed promptly.

“What truly set her apart, though, was her gentle approach during one of my mom’s biggest fears: needing an NG tube. Because of a past traumatic experience, my mom was terrified. Bridgette spoke to her softly, reassured her, and took the time to understand her fears. She eased my mom’s anxiety in a way no one else had been able to.

“With incredible skill and patience, Bridgette placed the NG tube with such care that my mom tolerated it better than ever before. Once the decompression began and my mom finally felt relief, it was clear how much Bridgette’s expertise and compassion had impacted her comfort and dignity.

“Bridgette didn’t just provide excellent clinical care; she gave us peace during a moment filled with pain and fear.

“Our family will always be grateful to Bridgette for the kindness and humanity she showed my mother. She is the true definition of what a DAISY nurse should be.”