Ariana Weaver Loves Caring for People

Mission Hospital A3 West (medical surgical unit) registered nurse Ariana Weaver was selected as a DAISY Award winner for her compassion and excellence in patient care.

The wife of a recent patient nominated Weaver for this special award. She wrote:

“When I heard the news about what was wrong with my husband, I was so very upset that I was going to go outside. As I was coming around, Ariana saw me crying and she came straight up to me and comforted and calmed me down… she really touched my heart. Thank you for having such a sweet and caring person. This really made me feel at ease and more comfortable about my husband being cared for by this team of nurses and doctors.”

Weaver said she loves getting to come to work as a nurse every day and care for people during their most vulnerable time, and encouraging them on their path to healing and wellness.

She started out at Mission Hospital as a CNA, left for a brief time, then returned as a registered nurse at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“I realized how much I enjoyed caring for people. This is the perfect job for someone who wants to care and show compassion—and all the tools and skills you get through nursing. It’s so unique and one of a kind,” Weaver said.

The DAISY award announcement was not something Weaver was expecting.

“It was a complete surprise; I had no idea this was coming. I had never heard of the DAISY award. I was working on the unit as usual and then people started gathering around and I was super surprised. I was so honored to receive that award. It reinforced that this is what I’m supposed to be doing. This is my passion,” said Weaver.

Weaver said her faith drives her to go above and beyond for patients on the difficult days, and puts herself in their shoes. “I think to myself this could be me, this could be my family member, this could be my friend or my loved one or my daughter and I think, how would I want someone to show up for them? I think about how I would want to be treated in the same situation—and that drives me to provide excellent care.”

Nothing gives Weaver more satisfaction at work than seeing a patient on their way out the doors.

“When I have patients discharged and they’re on their way back to their home, they are so thankful and they may give me a hug and say ‘thank you for being there,’ that’s the moment when I think wow, going above and beyond for them was all worth it. I’m super humbled for all the experiences I get while I’m here. I’m happy to be a nurse.”