WAYNESVILLE — A Waynesville resident was recently recognized for the extraordinary care she provided a patient at OSF Healthcare St. Joseph Medical Center in Bloomington. 

Elizabeth O’Rourke, BSN, works in the medical center’s comprehensive care center, also known as the intensive care unit. Last month she received a DAISY award for her care of a patient. 

“My husband suffered a cardiac arrest,” read the nomination. “Our family was told he probably would not survive through the night. But thankfully he did! He was in critical condition and the nurses would need to monitor him closely the next 72 hours.” 

According to the nomination, even though the patient was unresponsive, “(Elizabeth) would speak directly to him, calling him by name, and explaining what she would be doing. She always made sure he was comfortable.” 

“(Elizabeth) answered all of our questions no matter how trivial. The level of expertise and confidence (she) demonstrated allowed me to relax enough to go home for much needed rest. The next morning she couldn’t wait to tell me he had responded to her voice. I could tell she was genuinely happy for him! Her compassion and extraordinary care gave us encouragement and hope. He is home and making remarkable progress every day! Nursing takes a special person and (Elizabeth) has all these qualities and more!” 

O’Rourke graduated from Bradley University’s Accelerated Nursing Program in 2017 and joined OSF St. Joseph Medical Center later that year.  

“I’ve have learned a lot in my short time as a nurse,” said O’Rourke. “It is at times challenging, but even more rewarding. I am very lucky to have a career that I love.” 

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses began in 1999 to honor the work nurses do for patients and families.