Courageous compassion: Derrick Chu’s calm response earns DAISY Award

In a moment that demonstrated the impact of empathy and connection, Derrick Chu, BSN, RN, MICN, of the Emergency Department, was honored with the DAISY Award for his extraordinary compassion and professionalism during a tense and emotionally charged situation.

When a patient became agitated and threatening, Derrick stepped in to ensure a safe environment—using calm, respectful communication to defuse the situation. Derrick took the time to truly listen and connect with the patient, creating space for trust and understanding. His thoughtful approach not only ensured a safer outcome for everyone involved, but also provided the patient with a sense of dignity during a difficult time.

From the nomination: 

“Reason for Recognition: Derrick is an outstanding nurse here in the UC Davis (Health) Emergency Department, and I wanted to take this opportunity to recognize him for a standout moment that I was able to witness during an incredibly difficult situation.

“As many know, we have a diverse population of patients in this ED, and we treat patients with medical problems but also psychiatric problems as well. As the primary nurse of a patient who had a hard conversation with our psychiatric team about how he was going to need to be on a hold for the safety of others, the patient became very agitated at me and very threatening.

“It was at this moment that Derrick stepped between the patient and me, leaving a safe space, and using calm words was able to redirect the patient to return to his room. Derrick did not stop there, while safety officers and our campus Police Department were called to the area, the patient became more agitated and more confrontational. Seeing this he pulled the team aside and said, ‘I think I can talk to this patient, can you guys step back a little so that he doesn't feel so encroached?’ He used direct but compassionate words, and a patient that is in usually marginalized population, was receiving compassionate care, resulting in a less traumatic outcome. The patient complied with Derrick and the rest of the shift kept thanking him for using words instead of force.

“Derrick is an incredible nurse and an asset to our team; I am glad he was here for that patient and know that the type of small decisions he makes day in and day out contribute to a more equitable and fair treatment environment for our diverse patients.”

Congratulations, Derrick, on your DAISY Award!

About the DAISY Award:
The DAISY Award is part of The DAISY Foundation, an international program dedicated to recognizing nursing excellence. Established by the Barnes family in memory of their son, Patrick, the award honors the exceptional, compassionate care Patrick received from nurses during his eight-week hospitalization. To express their gratitude, the family created the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, celebrating the remarkable and often unsung work nurses perform every day at the bedside.