Role Model Compassionate Care:  
Jacinta is a mentor and promotes professional development by going above and beyond. She encourages and supports staff members to go back to school for advanced educational degrees and certification in GI Specialty. She is a role model as she herself obtained her MSN, CGRN and CNML certification as a leader. She is passionate about Gastroenterology and has decades of experience. She promotes all staff members' engagement in committees and projects to help improve patient care and processes. She develops mentorship in the unit to help newer nurses get certified and increase their knowledge in Gastroenterology. She promotes evidence-based practice by staying current in SGNA and shares information regarding new techniques, informational talks, educational, and teaching events, and fosters an environment where all staff (Nurses, GI tech, ACA, and ORA) can be successful in their professional development. She has also led the annual hands-on ERCP workshop and showcases seasoned nurses to help teach the workshops. She ensures all new staff members can attend, and it is an expectation. She shares the unit performance scores regarding patient experience and helps develop opportunities to improve while celebrating our successes. Promotes team bonding exercises within and outside the department. As a department, we did ax-throwing, Elm City party bike, get-togethers at each other’s houses, dinners, and much more. All these activities promote a teamwork environment, promote mutual respect, which improves patient care on the unit. 

Special Connection:
Jacinta provides a safe place for staff, both physically and emotionally. She encourages staff to ask questions or call out of the procedure room when they need help, whether a novice or seasoned nurse and/or tech. Her office door is always open to any staff member. She understands the struggles and concerns the staff members bring to her. She tries her best to resolve any issues and/or concerns the staff have. Jacinta upholds the standards of quality patient care and gives the staff access to the technology and equipment needed to do their job successfully. She values educational needs for staff and physicians by having vendor support or in-services to ensure everyone has the knowledge and skills to be great in the procedure rooms. She has weekly in-services for new and old equipment for the staff to stay comfortable and confident in their role. This is all done to provide the best care and outcomes for our patients. The SRC Endoscopy unit was recognized with the Flame Award last year. The National Recognition Flame Award is unit excellence and recognizes GI/Endoscopy Units that have shown a commitment to infection prevention, demonstrate knowledge, and achieve positive patient outcomes. This further solidifies that SRC has an exceptional working environment to care for our patients. SRC was sent a framed document, which is proudly displayed for our patients to see. This achievement would not be possible without her unwavering support. 

Significant Difference:
She motivates staff by getting involved in education and professional development in her own practice and expects all staff members to do the same. Motivates staff with her shared vision and enthusiasm to achieve better outcomes for themselves and for their patients. In 2022, Jacinta won the CTSGNA GI award for her expertise in Gastroenterology as GI Nurse of the year. Being accessible, available, and responsive to her team's needs is crucial. Jacinta embraces open communication, and any staff member at any time can go to her with concerns or just to talk. She is always there to lend a listening ear. This is important for staff members to feel valued and respected, knowing we have a voice and a platform to share ideas or concerns. Her core values as a leader have allowed for a better working environment, where the patients can see we all work together as a team. This is often acknowledged by patients in our monthly surveys, and staff are celebrated for their recognition.