Ancy Mathew

Ancy Mathew, registered nurse on the Emergency Assessment Unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital, received a DAISY Award in recognition of the exceptional compassionate care she provides and for her professionalism, development, and leadership.

Her nominator said: "On a particularly busy day on the ward, a patient had been admitted after a major fall. The patient was struggling with a combination of physical pain and emotional distress, feeling overwhelmed by the changes to their health.

"Ancy stepped in. Despite coming from a different setting, culture, and country, she demonstrated an incredible level of empathy and professionalism. She took the time to sit down with the patient, not only assessing their physical symptoms but also addressing their emotional needs. Ancy actively listened to their concerns, validating their feelings while also gently educating them about the recovery process.

"By involving the patient in decisions about pain management and encouraging them to communicate their needs openly, Ancy helped the patient feel more in control of their recovery. What was truly remarkable was Ancy's ability to balance this personal approach with the clinical side of nursing.

"She quickly identified subtle signs of discomfort that hadn't been flagged by others, ensuring the patient received adjustments to their treatment plan that improved their recovery time.

"What stood out most was Ancy's willingness to go above and beyond for the team. After the patient was settled, she took time to mentor the student nurses on the ward. She demonstrated techniques for patient comfort and effective communication, always encouraging them to take a holistic approach to care. She didn't just perform her job duties; she actively fostered a supportive, learning environment.

"I remember feeling so proud watching her handle that situation. When she first started, Ancy was a little unsure of herself, still learning how to find her confidence in such a fast-paced setting to a point that she used to go home crying. But now, less than three years later, she was not only delivering exceptional patient care but also being a guiding force for her colleagues and the next generation of nurses.

"Her growth was so evident, and it felt like a culmination of her dedication, skill, and compassion. She has evolved into a nurse who doesn’t just care for her patients, but elevates everyone around her, whether it's patients, peers, or students.

"It was incredibly rewarding to see how far she had come. You could tell that, in a few short years, Ancy had transformed into a nurse who was a cornerstone of the ward, someone you could rely on for both clinical expertise and emotional support. It's moments like these that truly show the power of mentorship and growth in nursing. What Ancy has achieved is inspiring and a reminder of how meaningful this profession can be, not just for patients, but for the entire healthcare team."

Congratulations, Ancy, and thank you for all you do.