Fauquier Health Honors Nurse with DAISY Award for Exceptional Care

Fauquier Health has announced Kari Schwind, RN, BSN, as the DAISY Award Honoree for the third quarter of 2024. This marks the second time Schwind has received this prestigious recognition, highlighting her extraordinary dedication and skill as an interventional radiology nurse. The DAISY Award, which honors nurses nominated by patients, families, and colleagues, celebrates those who make an exceptional impact on the lives of others.

Kari Schwind, RN, BSN accepts the DAISY Award certificate from Toni Maxwell, APRN, FNP-BC, Chief Nursing Officer at Fauquier Health.

Schwind, who has worked at Fauquier Health for 18 years and has a total of 31 years of nursing experience, received heartfelt praise from several patients and their families. One family member, whose elderly mother underwent a biopsy, shared how Schwind’s compassion and patience stood out. “Kari took such good care of her—making sure she wasn’t nervous, remembering her other ailments, and being patient. She didn’t rush her or talk down to her. Kari made her feel like a person, and it was all my mother could talk about,” the family member said.

Another patient echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Schwind’s warm demeanor and professionalism. “Kari was amazing. She was so sweet and helpful—very comforting and personable. She’s the definition of what a true nurse is!” the patient expressed.

Rebecca Segal, FACHE, CEO; Valarie Washington, MHA, BSN-RN, Director of Cardiovascular Services; Kari Schwind, RN, BSN, Danielle Quesenberry, BSN, RNC-OB; and Toni Maxwell, APRN, FNP-BC, CNO with the banner that is signed by DAISY honorees and displayed in their unit.

For Schwind, nursing is more than a career; it’s a way to make meaningful connections. “I love the interactions I get to have with so many people,” she said. “Making an impact on people’s lives and seeing their reactions always humbles me. I so enjoy the work I get to do every day!” Schwind, who holds a nursing degree from the University of Iowa, has consistently been recognized for her compassionate approach to patient care.

Toni Maxwell, APRN, FNP-BC, Chief Nursing Officer at Fauquier Health, commended Schwind’s exceptional dedication. “Our nurses at Fauquier Health are extraordinary professionals,” Maxwell noted. “For Kari to be honored with the DAISY Award twice speaks volumes about her commitment and the heartfelt care she provides. I am incredibly proud of Kari and her unwavering compassion.”

The DAISY Award is part of a global initiative by The DAISY Foundation, which was founded in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes. Barnes passed away at age 33 from complications of an autoimmune disease, and his family created the foundation to honor the extraordinary care he received from his nurses. Today, more than 6,500 healthcare facilities and nursing schools worldwide participate in the DAISY Award program, celebrating the essential role of nurses.

Fauquier Health continues to uphold its mission of delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. With recognitions such as the DAISY Award, the hospital celebrates the nurses who are the backbone of its compassionate care approach, ensuring a lasting impact on the community.