MITCHELL, S.D. (Mitchell Now) – Avera Queen of Peace Hospital is pleased to announce that Jacki Austerman, RN is the most recent recipient of its quarterly nurse recognition program called the DAISY Award.
The DAISY Program honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. DAISY is an acronym for “Diseases Attacking the Immune System.” The DAISY Award has grown into a meaningful recognition program embraced by health care organizations around the world, including multiple Avera facilities.
Nurses at any Avera Queen of Peace facilities are eligible to receive the DAISY Award.
“Winning the DAISY Award is truly an honor,” Austermansaid. “It means a great deal to be recognized for doing work that I genuinely care about. Being a nurse, especially in the women’s center, is about supporting patients and families during some of the most important and vulnerable moments of their lives. This award is a reminder of why I chose this profession and reinforces the importance of compassion, presence and advocacy in patient care.”
Austerman has been a registered nurse at Avera Queen of Peace for 15 years, all at the Women’s Center. She also taught expectant parent classes for 10 years, which was a rewarding experience that allowed her to support families before they arrived at the hospital.
“My approach when working with patients and their families is centered on communication, empathy and education. I strive to create a calm, supportive environment where patients feel heard and respected,” she said. “I believe in involving families as part of the care team and making sure they feel informed and comfortable throughout the process.”
Receiving the DAISY Award reaffirmed her career path in the nursing profession. “I feel very fortunate to be part of such a dedicated team. Nursing can be challenging, but it is incredibly meaningful work.”
She was nominated by a patient for her compassion, patience and kindness. The patient stated that Jacki stayed by her side and did everything she could to make her as comfortable as possible. When the patient unexpectedly had to stay overnight, Jacki made sure she could spend some time with her husband and children. She said that Jacki not only cares for the patient, but for their whole support system.
A committee of Avera employees evaluates the DAISY Award nominations and selects a winner every quarter.
The DAISY Foundation was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at age 33 in 1999 from complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. For more information, visit DaisyFoundation.org.
Anyone who has had a positive nursing care experience can nominate a deserving nurse for a DAISY award by filling out the online form at daisynomination.org/5357.