In honor of Nurses Week, we’re highlighting some of the incredible nurses who bring compassion, dedication, and expertise to our team every day. Learn more about one of our nurses, Katie Daly, RN, below!
What is your title and unit/department?
I am a registered nurse in the emergency department at MAHHC.
When did you start at MAHHC?
I am new to the ER; I started working at MAHHC in July 2024.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
I decided to become a nurse because I have always had a desire to help others and make a difference. Nursing provides an opportunity to combine compassion with medical expertise, which felt like the perfect fit for me. I was drawn to the idea of being able to support people during some of their most vulnerable moments, whether that’s in times of illness, injury, or emotional distress. Ultimately, I chose nursing because it offers a sense of purpose, and I truly believe it allows me to give back to the community in a profound way.
What interested you in your particular specialty?
Before joining MAHHC, I spent ten years working in intensive care units and the last six of those years as a travel nurse. I was ready to settle into a permanent, local position; I found myself looking for a new challenge while still utilizing the skills I’d developed—particularly in critical thinking, working in fast-paced environments, and assisting with procedures. I had consistently heard positive feedback about MAHHC from both staff and patients, and when I came across the emergency department opening, it felt like a natural transition. The ER offers the same intensity and dynamic environment I’ve always thrived in, and I knew it would be a great fit for my experience and interests.
What’s your favorite thing about being a nurse?
The ability to build meaningful connections with patients and their families while also contributing to their health and well-being is incredibly rewarding.
What’s a moment from your career that sticks out to you?
One of the most powerful moments in my career happened while working in the ICU. We had a patient on VV ECMO—essentially lung bypass—and for a long time, his condition was extremely critical. We poured everything we had into his care, not knowing if he would make it. Months later, he walked back onto the unit to thank the team. At first, none of us recognized him—we had only known him as a patient lying in a hospital bed. Seeing him standing, walking, and full of life was overwhelming. It was a rare and emotional reminder that the work we do truly matters, even when we don’t always get to see the outcome.
What’s something your colleagues don’t know about you?
I used to teach yoga and when I was a new grad I developed a chair yoga program for cancer patients.