Newsworthy

Compassion. Communication. Extraordinary care.

These qualities compelled a patient’s family member to nominate Nick Ahlert, Acute Care RN on the Critical Care Unit (CCU) Pavilion at Stormont Vail Hospital, for the DAISY Award.

Their heartfelt message following a challenging stay in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) highlights the dignity, skill, and humanity Nick brings to the bedside every day.

Nick’s DAISY Nomination

“I am writing to express my profound gratitude and admiration for the exceptional care provided by this nurse during my mother’s recent stay in the ICU. Our experience under his care was so extraordinary that I feel compelled to bring it to your attention.

My mother, who is very traditional and also contends with numerous health challenges including dementia, was admitted to the ICU on July 1 [2025]. It was during the night shift on July 2 when we had the privilege of meeting him. His professionalism, compassion, and attentiveness far exceeded our expectations and left a lasting impression on both my mother and myself.

He treated my mother with the utmost dignity and respect, which is a hallmark of Stormont Vail Health’s values. He made her feel at ease during the most vulnerable moments, such as assisting with her personal hygiene and other sensitive tasks. His bedside manner was exemplary, and he consistently performed his rounds with precision and timeliness.

What stood out most was his ability to communicate with both my mother and me. He took the time to explain each procedure to her, even when comprehension was uncertain, and continued to ensure I understood the details as well. His compassionate approach was evident in every interaction, as he tended to my mother’s needs with patience and genuine concern, including the challenging tasks that many find daunting.

This personal note seeks to acknowledge and commend him for his exceptional service. His skills go beyond mere duty; he embodies the core values of dignity, respect, and empathy, making him a model for others in his field. It replaces any hesitation I might have had about leaving my mother’s care to someone else—I have complete trust in his ability to provide outstanding care.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my commendation for him. His dedication and humanity deserve to be celebrated and emulated.”