Scotland Health Honors Lesia Pierce, RNC, LRN, with DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Care

Scotland Health is proud to announce that Lesia Pierce, RNC, LRN, of the Special Care Nursery, has been named the organization's newest recipient of the prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international recognition that celebrates nurses who demonstrate exceptional clinical skill and compassionate patient care.

Pierce was recognized during a surprise DAISY Award presentation attended by teammates and Scotland Health leadership. Her nomination highlighted her unwavering commitment to the hospital's smallest patients, as well as her dedication to supporting and mentoring fellow nurses.

According to the nomination, Pierce is known throughout the Special Care Nursery for treating every newborn with extraordinary compassion and attention.

"This nurse is one of the kindest and most compassionate nurses at Scotland," the nominator wrote."I had the privilege of working alongside her in the Special Care Nursery where I witnessed firsthand her incredible dedication to every baby she cares for."

The nomination went on to describe Pierce's selfless commitment to her patients, noting that she has come in on days off and skipped lunch breaks to care for sick and unstable newborns, treating each infant as if they were her own.

In addition to providing exceptional patient care, Pierce was praised for her role as a teacher and mentor. A fellow nurse shared how Pierce patiently guided and encouraged her while learning neonatal nursing, helping build both knowledge and confidence in a highly specialized area of care.

"She patiently taught me, shared her knowledge, and gave me confidence to grow as a nurse," the nomination stated."I will always appreciate the time and dedication she invested in teaching me, and I know many others have benefited from her willingness to mentor."

While much of Pierce's work takes place in the secure environment of the Special Care Nursery and often goes unseen by others, the nomination emphasized the lasting impact she has on both patients and teammates.

The nominator also recalled experiencing Pierce's compassion from a patient's perspective. While preparing for a cesarean section and unable to have her husband present during a portion of the procedure, Pierce remained by her side.

"She stood beside me, held my hands and comforted me so I wouldn't have to be alone," the nomination read."The simple act of kindness meant the world to me."

The DAISY Award is presented through the DAISY Foundation, an international organization established to recognize nurses who provide extraordinary care. During the presentation, Pierce received a DAISY certificate, the foundation's signature hand-carved sculpture, flowers, and cinnamon rolls, a tradition that honors the memory of Patrick Barnes and the compassionate nurses who cared for him.

Scotland Health congratulates Lesia Pierce, RNC, LRN, on receiving the DAISY Award and thanks her for the extraordinary care, compassion and professionalism she brings to patients, families and teammates.