South Georgia Medical Center honored Jordan Messer, RN, with the January DAISY award for extraordinary nursing care. Messer was recognized by a patient for going out of her way to make a custom heart pillow to support the patient's recovery following open heart surgery.   

Open heart surgery can make everyday actions like coughing, deep breathing, sneezing, laughing, getting out of bed and even the hiccups uncomfortable for patients right after surgery. Because the surgery requires dividing the chest cavity to allow access to the heart, the breastbone and chest area need extra support for up to three months following the procedure.  

One way patients can reduce their discomfort is to use a heart-shaped pillow—filled with firm stuffing—to help provide comfort, reduce pain and protect the surgery’s incision site. 

At the time of this patient's surgery, the traditional pillows were not available. However, the nurses made a makeshift one comprised of tightly folded blankets for the patient's use while in the hospital.  

The patient shared, "On the last day, Jordan presented me with my very own heart pillow that she had made herself for me! It meant so much, and I took it home with pride and gratefulness. I will never forget the care I was given during my surgery and recovery!" 

SGMC continues to ask patients and fellow employees to honor nurses they feel go above and beyond in their actions and care. Nominations are reviewed by a committee based on criteria that include compassion, teamwork, leadership, attitude, and skills and knowledge. 

DAISY awards are presented monthly in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors. Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” They also receive a beautiful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.  

To nominate a nurse for the DAISY award, visit sgmc.org.