Andrea Langenfeld, a registered nurse in the SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital Emergency Room, has been recognized with the prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses following a heartfelt nomination from a grateful patient whose experience exemplified Langenfeld’s commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
The patient visited the Emergency Room after enduring four days of severe facial pain and multiple visits to health care providers without finding relief. Feeling exhausted, frightened, and discouraged, the patient said Langenfeld immediately made a difference.
In the nomination, the patient shared that Langenfeld’s calm and reassuring presence helped ease anxiety during a difficult and uncertain time. The patient wrote that Langenfeld treated them “like a person, not just another patient,” giving her full attention and helping them feel cared for throughout the visit. Langenfeld even found ways to bring moments of laughter and comfort during a painful experience.
After testing revealed that the cause of the symptoms was a severe sinus infection rather than a more serious condition, the patient recalled a moment that stayed with them long after leaving the hospital. As they were preparing to go home, Langenfeld saw them in the hallway and enthusiastically reassured them, saying, “This is what we wanted!” The patient’s nomination noted that Langenfeld’s genuine relief and happiness helped transform feelings of embarrassment into gratitude and reassurance.
“Andrea exemplifies what it means to provide exceptional nursing care,” according to Michelle Hintz, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital Emergency Room director. “In the Emergency Room, our nurses care for patients during some of their most vulnerable moments. Andrea’s ability to combine clinical excellence with genuine compassion creates meaningful experiences for patients and families. This recognition reflects the extraordinary impact she has on those she serves every day.”
According to the nomination, the patient felt validated in seeking care and left the hospital feeling relieved rather than ashamed. The patient concluded by writing that Langenfeld’s compassion, positive attitude and dedication to her profession made a frightening experience much easier, adding that they will always be grateful for her kindness.
“Andrea builds trust through every interaction,” Hintz says. “She takes the time to listen, connect and provide comfort while delivering high-quality care. We are proud to see her recognized with this well-deserved honor.”
The DAISY Award was established to recognize nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skills and compassionate care. At SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital, the award celebrates nurses who consistently go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families.
Date posted: August 24, 2026