August 2025 Honoree
John Opichka, RN
"I am Professional"
John consistently displays his professionalism through his exceptional bedside manner. Year after year, he is an example of how to talk to and take care of patients in a way that is informative and with compassion. One specific patient requested him and said, "he is kind and answers all my questions in a way I understand."
"I am an Advocate"
John acts as relief charge frequently, and I feel he always has our best interests in mind and supports us by providing knowledge, giving an extra hand, and making sure our patient load isn't too overwhelming.
"I am a Partner"
John is a great go-between and partners with the physicians, case manager, and families to ensure everyone is on the same page.
"I am Accountable"
Even though John is very knowledgeable and has more years of experience than most, he is open-minded, continues to learn, and recognizes that things change and knows he needs to change with the times.
"I am a Leader"
Johns leadership style is calm but confident; that leadership style sets such a great tone for the floor- we know we're in good hands.
John is all the things mentioned above and more. Many times, he has calmed aggressive and angry patients. One specific time, he was able to build a good rapport with a behavioral health patient where the staff felt safer and the patient left feeling heard. John is just a really well-rounded nurse; he listens, learns, shares knowledge, doesn't get overwhelmed, helps his co-workers, and cares well for his patients. I think SSM is lucky to have had him here for all these years.
John consistently displays his professionalism through his exceptional bedside manner. Year after year, he is an example of how to talk to and take care of patients in a way that is informative and with compassion. One specific patient requested him and said, "he is kind and answers all my questions in a way I understand."
"I am an Advocate"
John acts as relief charge frequently, and I feel he always has our best interests in mind and supports us by providing knowledge, giving an extra hand, and making sure our patient load isn't too overwhelming.
"I am a Partner"
John is a great go-between and partners with the physicians, case manager, and families to ensure everyone is on the same page.
"I am Accountable"
Even though John is very knowledgeable and has more years of experience than most, he is open-minded, continues to learn, and recognizes that things change and knows he needs to change with the times.
"I am a Leader"
Johns leadership style is calm but confident; that leadership style sets such a great tone for the floor- we know we're in good hands.
John is all the things mentioned above and more. Many times, he has calmed aggressive and angry patients. One specific time, he was able to build a good rapport with a behavioral health patient where the staff felt safer and the patient left feeling heard. John is just a really well-rounded nurse; he listens, learns, shares knowledge, doesn't get overwhelmed, helps his co-workers, and cares well for his patients. I think SSM is lucky to have had him here for all these years.
Thank you, John, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
View More Honorees