In the often stressful environment of a hospital, encountering a nurse who embodies both thoroughness and kindness can make a world of difference. Teagan Papenfuss, RN, is one such nurse whose remarkable care left a lasting impact on a patient and her family.

In nominating Papenfuss for the DAISY Award, the patient stated, “My mother and I were admitted to the hospital during the same time. My mother was very sick, and while I was dealing with my health issues, I was very worried about her. Teagan intuitively understood this delicate balance and went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and peace of mind.”

Pictured: Christy Stevens, Director of Med/Surg, Teagan Papenfuss, RN, and Sonda Tolle, Vice-President Patient Services.

From the beginning, Teagan’s warm and kind disposition stood out for the patient. “She knew I wanted to try and take as little pain meds as I could get away with as I don’t like medication. Teagan respected my wishes, setting her alarm multiple times during the night to check if I needed medication, always prioritizing my comfort and preferences.”

Her thoughtfulness extended beyond medical care. “She also suggested that I order my dinner and eat with my mom. Doing so ultimately cheered us up and was the comfort we needed,” the patient added.

Teagan’s approach underscores a fundamental truth in healthcare, as the patient stated: “I think people get busy and forget that kindness helps sometimes more than anything with a patient’s mindset and, therefore, their healing. Some patients are stressed, scared, and anxious and just want to know what to expect and to be treated with care. Teagan certainly went above and beyond in this area.”

In a world where healthcare professionals are often pressed for time, Tegan Pappenfuss stands out as a shining example of what it means to go above and beyond. Her dedication, empathy, and exceptional care are a testament to a compassionate nurse’s profound impact on the lives of patients and their families.

The DAISY Award

In 1999, the compassionate journey of the DAISY Foundation began, born out of the profound loss experienced by the Barnes family. Patrick Barnes, a remarkable individual, succumbed to complications from the autoimmune disease ITP at the age of 33. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, the Barnes family sought a positive way to commemorate Patrick’s memory.

Over a heartfelt and reflective dinner shortly after Patrick’s passing, the family conceptualized DAISY, which stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The foundation’s inception was fueled by the family’s desire to contribute something meaningful and positive in honor of Patrick.

As the Barnes family deliberated on the purpose of The DAISY Foundation, they consistently circled back to a beacon of light amid Patrick’s challenging 8-week illness – the exceptional care provided by his nurses. While the clinical expertise of the nurses left a lasting impression, the profound compassion and kindness they consistently exhibited at Patrick’s bedside truly touched the family’s hearts.

In gratitude for the extraordinary care bestowed upon Patrick and their family, the Barneses initiated The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses. What began as a personal expression of appreciation has blossomed into a global recognition program embraced by numerous healthcare organizations worldwide. The DAISY Foundation has become a powerful symbol of appreciation for the unwavering dedication and exceptional care nurses extend to patients and their families daily.

Interested in working with an exceptional team? Learn more here.

About Perham Health 

Perham Health is a 25-bed Critical Access Hospital with three primary care clinics, a 96-bed nursing home, home health care agency, adult day services, memory care assisted living, and senior housing.  The medical staff consists of 24 physicians, a nurse midwife, 14 advance practice clinicians, and three chiropractors. Visit perhamhealth.org to learn more.