Daisy Winner Taylor Schulze Recognized for 'Quick Thinking and Courageous Intervention' at Crash Scene
Taylor Schulze, RN, is an Emergency Department nurse and our second Daisy Award winner of 2025
She was nominated by Emergency Department Nurse Intern Nichole Linder, who was working as an emergency services first responder earlier this spring. Nichole shared the following in her Daisy Award nomination letter:
While on her way home from a fishing trip, Taylor witnessed a severe motor vehicle accident. A motorcycle traveling at high speed collided with a pickup truck, forcefully ejecting both motorcycle occupants approximately 15 feet from the point of impact.
Without hesitation, Taylor rushed to the scene and immediately began rendering lifesaving care. She quickly identified that one of the victims had suffered a traumatic amputation and, without access to standard medical equipment, used her own belt as an improvised tourniquet to stop the bleeding. She then assessed and stabilized the second victim, securing a visibly deformed limb to prevent further injury.
When I arrived as the first EMS provider on scene, I found Taylor maintaining control of the situation with impressive calm and competence. Despite having less than a year of experience as a newly graduated Emergency Department nurse and no formal EMS background, Taylor acted with the poise and decisiveness of a seasoned responder. Her quick thinking and courageous intervention almost certainly contributed to the survival of both patients.
Taylor’s actions are a testament to her character, clinical skills, and unwavering commitment to helping others. I am proud to work alongside her and look forward to seeing her continued growth in the nursing profession.
Emergency Department Manager Matthew Poulson wrote the following about Taylor:
Taylor has been a valued member of the Emergency Department team for several years, beginning her journey as a critical care tech and nurse intern before becoming a registered nurse. She has consistently demonstrated exceptional teamwork, clinical skill, and unwavering compassion for her patients. Taylor is always willing to go above and beyond to support her colleagues and advocate for those in need.
Her actions following a serious motor vehicle accident — stepping in as a first responder while off-duty and providing life-saving interventions — are a powerful reflection of her character. In an incredibly chaotic and high-stakes situation, she acted with calm, courage, and confidence. This event not only highlights Taylor’s clinical competence but also her instinctive drive to help others in moments of crisis. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our team. She is a true asset to the department.
To nominate a nurse for the Daisy Award, click here.
