Rachel Dixon, RN, H4 – Trauma Surgical Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit
Please join the Center for Nursing Excellence in congratulating Rachel Dixon, RN, for being selected as the DAISY Award recipient for the month of November!
Rachel Dixon, RN, H4 – Trauma Surgical Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit, and was nominated by a co-worker. The nomination below reflects how Rachel impacted their life in a very special way.
Nomination: I am nominating Rachel Dixon for the extraordinary compassion she demonstrated during her night shift with one of our critically ill patients. This patient, who is Pentecostal, has very long hair that is deeply meaningful to her faith and identity. While she was intubated, sedated, and completely unaware, her hair had become severely tangled during her hospitalization.
Recognizing how important this is to the patient, Rachel took it upon herself — without anyone asking — to spend hours gently and carefully untangling, washing, and braiding the patient’s hair. This was during a busy night shift, yet she dedicated the time and attention it required, ensuring the patient’s dignity and personal values were honored even while she was unable to speak for herself.
This act was not done for recognition or thanks, but simply because it was the right thing to do. Rachel demonstrated the heart of nursing — compassion, respect, and advocacy for the whole person, even when they are unable to advocate for themselves. Her kindness will have a lasting impact on this patient and her family.
Thank you, Rachel!