“I knew the PICU was the right spot for me”

By Maureen Gilmer, Riley Children’s Health senior writer, mgilmer1@iuhealth.org

When she was in nursing school, Maya Johnston knew she loved critical care.

In fact, she loved it so much she also trained as an emergency medical services provider, working in that role while finishing her degree.

She wasn’t sure about working in pediatrics, but a rotation on a peds unit in Fort Wayne during nursing school awakened a passion in her.

“I fell in love with it,” she said. “I knew the PICU was definitely the right spot for me.”

Johnston has worked on the pediatric intensive care unit at Riley Hospital for Children for three years, and after earning multiple DAISY nominations for her clinical skills and compassionate care, she recently won the DAISY after the care she provided a patient last summer.

“I was honored to be recognized and am very grateful for the support from leadership and my colleagues.”

Johnston was nominated for the DAISY after she provided sensitive, compassionate care for a critically ill patient with special needs who was intubated.

“I had never cared for a patient like her, but being able to help her and the family was humbling,” the nurse said. “I’m thankful to have been able to help.”

A family member of the patient’s who nominated Johnston was struck by her calm demeanor, her attention to detail, her patience and her nuanced care in a difficult situation.

“I’ve adored every nurse I’ve interacted with here in the PICU,” the nominator said, “but I want Maya to get this award not just because she earned it but because it is a way I can give a meaningful gift back to her. I may never see Maya again, but the impact she made … will not be forgotten.”

PICU nurses rely on each other to get through particularly hard days and nights, and Johnston is no different, saying they comfort and support each other.

Outside of work, she finds peace in spending time with her husband, Cole, and their dog, Eva, and in staying active, exercising regularly.

She also has found that making sourdough is great therapy for any stress she is feeling, and she loves to share the bread with family and friends.

“The most fun part for me is shaping the dough and creating designs on the top before baking, but my favorite part is smelling and eating the finished product. Fresh bread is always the best!”

Nominate a nurse who exemplifies excellent clinical skills and compassionate care here. https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/riley-daisy-award

Photos submitted and by Mike Dickbernd, IU Health visual journalist, mdickbernd@iuhealth.org