Justin Mercer, Licensed Practical Nurse at South Georgia Medical Center (SGMC), received The DAISY Award for extraordinary nursing care. The award is part of the international DAISY Foundation.
Mercer was nominated by a patient who said, “I stayed at SGMC and had the pleasure of having Justin care for me for a few days. In talking with him, he shared some of his personal experiences which made me feel seen and cared about in my recovery. I always enjoy getting to connect with my healthcare team, and Justin was the highlight of my stay; my level of interest in my care and the medical world in general was not frowned upon by him. He made me feel ‘more human-like’ and I cannot stress his generosity and care enough.”
Mercer has been with SGMC for four years.
SGMC continues to ask patients and fellow employees to honor nurses they feel go above and beyond in their actions and care. Nominations are reviewed by a committee based on criteria that include compassion, teamwork, leadership, attitude, and skills and knowledge.
DAISY awards are presented monthly in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors. Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” They also receive a beautiful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.
To nominate a nurse for the DAISY award, visit sgmc.org.