Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
The Salem VA Medical Center recently recognized registered nurse Carolyn Keyes as its latest DAISY Award honoree, citing her compassionate care and clinical expertise in treating a critically ill veteran.
Keyes, who works in the medical-surgical intensive care unit, was nominated by a veteran patient she cared for while the patient was experiencing severe health issues and preparing for a medical procedure, according to an announcement from the medical center.
Hospital officials said Keyes ensured the patient’s safety and carefully coordinated preparations ahead of the procedure while providing ongoing support during a stressful time.
In the nomination, the veteran credited Keyes with helping them feel protected and confident that all necessary staff and resources were in place during the procedure.
“She gave 100% for me to live … she is the best nurse I ever met … she is my hero,” the veteran wrote.
The DAISY Award is a national program that honors nurses for extraordinary compassion and care. The Salem VA Medical Center encouraged staff and the community to join in recognizing Keyes for what it described as “life-changing care, expertise and sincerity” provided to veterans each day.
