Helen Okereke has worked for Inpatient Rehab for over 10 years. Helen has taken on many roles during her time on 8N from preceptor to charge nurse to covering the Case Manager and Admission Coordinator positions. In each role, she mentors and shares her knowledge with her peers. She has become a "lynch pin" team member, stepping up to lead during challenging situations. When performing patient care, Helen builds a genuine and meaningful rapport with patients, families and caregivers. She demonstrates strong nursing skills when providing patient and caregiver training regarding spinal cord injury, wound care, medications, and more. Because of her clinical credibility and the trusting relationships she builds, her patients are motivated to follow through on her instruction. Many of her peers have recognized her diligence, hard work, and focus on always doing what is best for the patient and family. Helen's ongoing commitment to quality and excellence in nursing practice led to her successful completion of a master's degree this past spring. She is now pursuing a specialty certification in Rehab Nursing later this year. Helen supports the interdisciplinary team daily, participating in decision-making for shift needs and coordination of admission/discharges. In her admissions role, she is frequently the first contact for referring providers and family members of potential patients. She is cheerful, courteous and informative in her interactions, responding with timeliness, compassion and respect. Helen manages multiple time-sensitive, competing demands with great composure and humor, and is always offering suggestions for process improvements. We are extremely grateful for her commitment to 8 North patients and families!