Dibyaa Maharjan

A nurse described as the “lynchpin” of the Royal Berkshire Hospital’s Acute Stroke Unit has been nominated for Health Worker of the Year, sponsored by Clearview Intelligence.

Since joining the RBH stroke team during the COVID pandemic, Dibyaa “always goes the extra mile to ensure patients receive the highest quality care,” her nominator said.

“Dibyaa consistently brings kindness, empathy and professionalism to everything she does,” they added. “Her compassion extends beyond patients to her peers and colleagues as well.”

The nominator highlighted the extraordinary lengths Dibyaa goes to ensure patients receive the highest quality care. In one case, she cared for an elderly stroke patient with severe hearing impairment who had never received hearing aids in the community. Recognising that his physical disability made it difficult for him to attend an audiology clinic, Dibyaa personally contacted the audiology department and arranged a specialised hearing device with a microphone.

“Her intervention greatly improved his ability to engage with rehabilitation and enhanced his recovery,” the nominator said. “It demonstrated her initiative, insight and unwavering commitment to compassionate care.”

Dibyaa has also become an invaluable source of support for patients from Reading’s Nepalese community. When language barriers make communication especially difficult, particularly during severe illness or end-of-life situations, she regularly goes out of her way to speak with patients and families in their own language.

“Her presence brings dignity and comfort when it is needed most,” the nominator added.

“She shines like a star and truly deserves recognition for her exceptional compassionate care to patients, families and colleagues alike.”