Shirley consistently goes over and above to mentor members of her healthcare team. She is genuinely concerned for her patients and the care they receive. She possesses excellent critical thinking skills and shows compassion towards patients and their family.

One instance in particular was her patient wanted a meal after arriving to the unit late. Dietary had closed and only sandwiches were available on the unit. After her shift ended, Shirley went to Denny's and purchased a meal for the patient and brought it back to the hospital.

If the unit is short staffed, many times she will "sit" with patients that require a sitter for safety reasons so as not to "short" the PCA's on the unit. She has an excellent rapport with case managers, social workers and other departmental personnel. She helps coordinate social activities and potlucks for staff to help prevent burn out and boost employee morale and teamwork. She is well liked and respected by her peers. She truly embraces what "Team Nursing" is all about and is a great asset to her unit. I commend her for her untiring spirit. I'm honored to nominate her for such a deserving award.