We are proud to celebrate Allison Matache, BSN, RN, from the Family Birthplace at Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital, as our recent DAISY Award Honoree—a recognition reserved for nurses who go above and beyond in delivering extraordinary care.
Allison’s story is best told through the words of a grateful patient, who faced a long and difficult journey delivering their baby. “Initially none of the narcotics were helping with my pain, my epidural didn’t help me due to my scoliosis, my cervix wasn’t dilating, and baby’s heart rate was decreasing. I eventually needed an emergency c section, while in surgery, I lost about half of my body’s blood supply. My birthing experience was very frightening, and I’d developed a lot of anxiety. I was in the hospital from Thursday-Monday & Allison was there at my beck and call with no complaints.”
Throughout this challenging time, Allison’s dedication never wavered. “Each time she came in, she’d ask me how I was feeling, if me and baby needed anything. She made sure I stayed hydrated no matter what since I’d lost so much blood during the delivery. Every entrance she made was met with 1 or 2 cups of fresh water. She changed my sheets, pillowcases and bed pads each day to ensure I felt clean, which was really big for me. She made sure I ate every meal and sometimes even called it in for me.”
Allison’s patience and empathy shone through every interaction. “She was very patient with me and answered all of my questions (I asked a lot of questions), she also reassured me that she would help me with anything, whether it be adjusting me in the bed or assisting with the baby so that I could rest a little. She also showed me how to use my breast pump, as this was my first child.”
Even in passing, Allison made sure to check in. “In passing or even when other nurses were assisting me, Allison made sure to stop by and tell me hi or to just check on me and baby. On my discharge day, she told me I’m a great mama already and gave me many encouraging words which made me feel great after such a long hospital visit and birth experience.”
The patient’s trust in Allison was built on her thoughtful approach: “Any medicine she gave me; she talked me through it. If she was giving me an IV, she talked through the steps with me so I could follow along with the process. She made me very comfortable & I trusted her. Me, my partner and baby appreciate her so much!”
Allison’s story is a testament to the power of compassionate nursing. Her attention to detail, her kindness, and her unwavering support made a lasting impact on a family during one of life’s most vulnerable moments.