I've seen Melissa promoted to Assistant Director of Nursing since I started working at Starr Regional Nursing Home. I have seen her desk piled high and be so busy but she would stop and take as much time as needed to calm or talk to a resident. She would take them in her office for hours on end. Whatever it takes to make sure they get what they need. She always has a friendly face and a calm voice with everyone. Each resident is treated with care and respect. Even if they are being unpleasant, her calmness and caring attitude showsthat she always puts her residents and job before her needs of the day. I have seen days that she missed breakfast and lunch. If she needs to be a floor nurse, CNA, or whatever she needs to do throughout the day, she never complains but keeps going.
Sometimes Melissa is overlooked, but we need more people like her in our work and our lives. I asked Melissa to talk with a resident who was crying all morning. She talked with the resident for a long time and took her to her office where she kept her for several hours until all was good again. These days are often!