End-of-Life Care Results in DAISY Award for Salinas Valley Health Nurse

Media Contact: Karina Rusk
831-759-1843

April 5, 2023 –Past recipients of the DAISY Award for nursing excellence at Salinas Valley Health have received recognition for saving a patient’s life under intense medical circumstances. This month, the honor goes to someone who proves compassionate care can be just as significant in death.

Kristen Green Meadows, RN, BSN, has worked in the intensive care and critical care units since joining Salinas Valley Health in July of 2018 and consistently rises to meet patient needs in the most challenging of circumstances. Four of Kristen’s nursing colleagues nominated her for the DAISY Award sharing many examples of caring connections and one specific situation involving end-of-life care.

In one of many conversations with a terminally ill patient, Kristen discovered the woman wanted a piece of cheese and pepperoni pizza. Kristen made that request a reality and even though the patient could only enjoy a few bites, she expressed her gratitude many times. Laurel Black, RN added that days later, Kristen navigated difficult family dynamics to arrange for the patient’s daughter to be at the bedside when her mother peacefully passed away.

“Kristen is compassionate, kind and extremely professional with excellent clinical judgment,” said Laurel Black, MSN, RN, CCRN, Salinas Valley Health ICU/CCU nurse. Another nomination entry noted “Kristen is one of the best team players I have the honor to work with. She cares for her patients and co-workers alike.”

When Kristen received the DAISY Award during a ceremony on the unit, she expressed her surprise at the beautiful and meaningful statue that accompanies the honor and addressed the group on hand for the event. “I’m overwhelmed with emotions,” said Kristen Green Meadows, RN, BSN, DAISY Award recipient. “I’m so grateful to work with all of you. I’m in a field of daisies.”

In addition to Kristen, Angela Guerra, RN in the emergency department and Marie Marbach, RN, case manager were also nominated for the DAISY Award.

Every month, Salinas Valley Health recognizes two extraordinary employees, one with a DAISY Award (for nurses) and another with a STAR Award (for all staff). STAR stands for the organization’s core values of Support, Teamwork, Accountability and Respect. Nominations can be submitted by patients, visitors and staff. Nomination forms and drop boxes are located throughout the medical center and online. To learn more about the awards visit Nurse Recognition | Salinas Valley Health.