Colleague Spotlight: Bailey DiNucci
The DAISY Foundation is an international recognition program that rewards and celebrates the extraordinary, compassionate and skillful care given by nurses every day. We are proud to recognize Bailey DiNucci, RN, Neuro ICU, with this special honor.
In nominating Bailey, the parents of one of her recent patients wrote, “During one of the most terrifying experiences of our lives, one nurse became our unwavering source of hope, strength and compassion. Our daughter, Beth, was rushed to the emergency room, unresponsive and in critical condition. She was placed on a ventilator and transferred to the neurological ICU, where our world became one of uncertainty, fear and helplessness. But in that darkness, this nurse became our light.
From the moment she stepped into Beth’s room, Bailey was fully present, not just as a medical professional, but as an advocate, a protector and a fierce champion for our daughter’s recovery. She explored every option within her authority, trying different techniques to ensure Beth’s quickest and most comfortable path to healing. But what stands out most was a pivotal moment that changed everything for Beth. Despite the heavy sedation, it was clear to both Bailey and I that Beth was in pain while on the ventilator. More importantly, she was cognitively ready to come off of it.
As a mother, watching my daughter struggle in that state was unbearable, and Bailey saw that, not just as a clinician, but as a human being who truly cared. While there was caution about removing the ventilator too soon, she didn’t back down in advocating for what was best for Beth. With her persistence and medical insight, the decision was made to proceed with extubation. What happened next was nothing short of remarkable, within just eight hours, Beth was walking and talking.
Beyond her incredible medical expertise, what made Bailey truly extraordinary was her patience, kindness, and ability to navigate the emotions of an overwhelmed and deeply concerned family. We had a room full of relatives, each with different personalities, anxieties and countless questions. She answered every single one of them with grace, patience and medical intelligence, never once making us feel like a burden. Her ability to communicate complex information in a way that comforted and reassured all of us was just as impactful as the care she provided to Beth.
Bailey didn’t just do her job, she changed our experience in a way we will never forget. She saw us, she heard us, and she fought for Beth when she needed it most. She embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for, exceptional skill, extraordinary compassion and an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.
Our family will always be grateful for the difference Bailey made in our lives. Because of her, Beth’s path to recovery was smoother, faster and filled with the dignity and care every patient deserves. She is a nurse in every sense of the word, but more than that, she is a healer, a warrior and a blessing we will never forget.”
Thank you, Bailey, for exemplifying our promise to Care Like Family.
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