Colleague spotlight: Nikki Erdman
Learn more about our amazing colleagues who we have the privilege to work alongside, providing care like family.
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 Nikki Erdman, RN, MTU, with this special honor.
In nominating Nikki, a grateful family member wrote:
“In a hospital full of educated and loving nurses, it is such a blessing — and so much fun — to get a nurse like Nikki Erdman. She is a star that shines the brightest.”
From the very beginning of her stay, Sharon Pascoe knew she was in the care of someone special. After a serious fall left her with a shattered wrist and foot, Sharon was facing not only physical pain but also the emotional weight of uncertainty. That’s when Nikki stepped in — not just as a nurse, but as a source of light, strength, and comfort.
“Nikki comes in each morning and lights up my gloomy day,” Sharon shared. “She nursed me through my pains and was always one step ahead — often noticing what I needed before I even realized it myself.”
One particularly memorable moment came when Sharon was anxious about how she would manage to get to the bathroom. Without hesitation, Nikki arrived with a Sara Stedy mobility aid, already having planned how to make the transfer safe and smooth. With Nikki’s help, Sharon was able to stand, move, and return comfortably — all while Nikki made her bed and ensured everything was in place.
“She comes in every day with a smile that makes me smile and an attitude that made me believe in myself,” Sharon said. “Every task we attempted, we would laugh together. She soothed my anxiety.”
It’s this rare combination of clinical skill, emotional intelligence, and genuine kindness that makes Nikki Erdman such an exceptional nurse. Sharon describes her as someone who doesn’t just care for patients — she uplifts them, inspires them, and helps them heal in every sense of the word.
“I just had to tell you how much Nikki has meant to me,” Sharon wrote. “She is so much, and you can feel her kind heart trying to help you in any way she can. I was very lucky to have met Nikki and have her as my nurse.”
Thank you, Nikki, for embodying the heart of nursing. Your compassion, intuition, and joyful spirit make a lasting difference in the lives of those you care for — and we are so proud to celebrate you.
Thank you, Nikki, for exemplifying our promise to Care Like Family and for your extraordinary dedication to patient-centered care.
Click to nominate an extraordinary nurse, learn more about or cardiac care and explore careers available at HCA HealthONE.