Our unit has transformed remarkably, demonstrating resilience, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Since 2021, we have transitioned from a Med-Surg unit to a specialized Orthopedic Unit. While this transition presented challenges, it was through determination, collaboration, and a shared vision that we have emerged stronger and more cohesive, setting a high standard for patient care. One of our significant achievements is the professional development of our nursing staff. To meet the demands of this specialty, we prioritized training and encouraged our nurses to pursue orthopedic certification. Through hard work, rigorous preparation, and the steadfast support of our manager and team, four of our nurses successfully passed their certification exams, bringing us closer to our goal of being recognized as an outstanding Orthopedic unit in the city. Our dedication to meeting and exceeding national orthopedic benchmarks is evident in our daily practices. We ensure patients are mobilized within six hours post-surgery and that pain management plans are effective and compassionate. We diligently monitor the use of incentive spirometers, follow DVT prophylaxis protocols, and promote safe and comprehensive discharge planning. These efforts ensure a seamless process from pre-surgery education, such as Joint Camp classes, to post-surgical care and home recovery.

Our focus on safety and patient outcomes has established us as a unit that patients and families can trust. Not every patient experience is straightforward, and some bring unique challenges. For instance, one elective hip surgery patient presented significant post-operative difficulties. Despite completing pre-surgery requirements like Joint Camp, the patient was uncooperative after surgery, expressed frustration through verbal aggression, and experienced a lack of family support. We developed a tailored plan with guidance from our manager, Director, nurse navigator, and Case Manager, OT/PT. Our compassionate nurses and CNAs persevered, employing patience and empathy. Over time, the patient cooperated, engaged positively with staff, and expressed gratitude upon discharge. This transformation exemplifies our team's ability to manage complex situations and deliver compassionate, patient-centered care.

Beyond clinical care, our staff actively contributes to the hospital's broader goals, participating in hospital councils and the Unit Based Council. Even facing challenges like staffing shortages, we maintain a culture of positivity and support. Our unit thrives on laughter, camaraderie, and a strong sense of unity. Misunderstandings are resolved through open communication and a commitment to hospital policies, fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, supported, and heard. To further enhance the patient experience, our unit has implemented thoughtful initiatives. We now provide customized welcome cards and fruit baskets for elective orthopedic surgery patients, easing their anxiety and making them feel cared for from arrival. For non-orthopedic patients, we offer a tailored version of this practice, ensuring that everyone feels a warm welcome. We enhance patient care by providing bins stocked with essential items and introducing the CARE Channel and aromatherapy from the Tranquility Department. These efforts reflect our commitment to holistic care, particularly for patients whose families may not be present during their hospital stay.

Our culture of mutual respect, friendship, and teamwork truly distinguishes our unit. Despite individual differences, we come together as a family, united by our shared mission to provide safe and exceptional care. This strong bond extends to our retention rates, as even staff members approaching retirement continue to delay their plans, finding joy and purpose in our work environment. Outside of work, we prioritize celebrating milestones and fostering connections. We hold monthly birthday celebrations for our staff and plan outings like our recent picnic in April, where we played games and included our families.

Our team is more than just colleagues—we are a second family. We begin each day excited to see each other, ready to face any challenge with optimism and support. From our professional achievements to our connections, we exemplify the spirit of teamwork and dedication. I am proud and honored to be a part of this exceptional team, and I wholeheartedly believe that our unit deserves to be recognized for its excellence.