As a leader in our unit, Ashley demonstrates the ability to quickly prioritize the needs of the unit appropriately. She seems to have a pulse on the overall happenings during critical times. She is able to defuse conflict, whether it be with staff, patients, or family members. She swiftly delegates when necessary and remains calm and available to staff. Here is a specific story I encountered with her:
One evening our unit had a complicated delivery. I was floated to postpartum that evening. I was caring for patients on the floor. Ashley quickly recognized that it was necessary for me to attend this delivery for back up support to new staff members. She showed the ability to assess the skills of the staff and have a real-time understanding of the current delivery risk. As it turned out she was right. Patient safety could have been compromised without a staffing adjustment.
I was concerned about my patients on the floor. Just as that thought entered my mind, Ashley approached. In her always calm, cool, and collected demeanor, she said, "What do your patients need? I'll take care of it." As it turned out, I was needed in the nursery for the remainder of the evening. In that four-hour timespan, Ashley remained as charge nurse giving support and resources to L&D, while rounding on my floor patients, and continually checking in with us in the nursery.
At the end of my shift, I opened my PP charts to see that Ashley had charted every round, med administration, diaper changes, and feedings for 5 patients while I was away from the floor. I entered the rooms to say goodbye for the evening. Not one of them seemed to notice or mind that I had been away for four hours! They were in great hands.
That evening Ashley was able to keep all three units' patients safe and satisfied with their care. My respect and trust in Ashley grew even more. A trusted charge nurse and co-worker is a priceless asset.