I have worked with Talula for several years now. Talula is a Clinical Nurse Leader in the Communication Center. Over the years, she has consistently provided support to our team members and patients. Talula has incredible change management skills and has been successful in leading her team through change. She is organized, takes the time to include team members in decision-making, listens to her team, and is clear on non-negotiables as well. She takes the time to document workflows and processes in a way that her team can easily follow. She makes herself available 24/7 for our teams for any questions or support.

Just a couple of examples of the vast change management Talula has led include the complete change in work and focus during COVID. Her hands-on approach each day helped the team pivot to critical work almost overnight. She not only assures the team is successful but also makes them feel valued for what they accomplish. The discharge team has been asked to take on several "special projects" outside of their normal day-to-day functions. Talula embraces every change and assures the team succeeds.

Currently, she is partnering with multidisciplinary teams to develop a pilot aimed at reducing readmissions. Again, in this pilot, she is thinking outside the box and encouraging her team to do the same. Talula has high team satisfaction. She takes on the first couple of weeks of orientation for every new nurse on the Discharge and Transfer Center team. She has developed a clear and easy-to-follow orientation path with a resource binder for new hires. Feedback is extremely positive on her process and the resources she has created. She sets new team members up for success.

Another way Talula has built team satisfaction is through consistent weekly team huddles. Talula has gone beyond providing information at huddles to making them an interactive, safe space for the team. The team, in turn, is open to discussing ideas, and they are even coming to present themselves. This is all due to Talula's support and encouragement, and again makes the team feel they have a place that is safe to discuss ideas outside the box. She has set expectations for in-person huddles to build teamwork and respect among the members.

All of her team building is reflected in the care that the team provides our patients. Our team shows pride in their work, and I truly believe that starts with the compassion, caring, and clinical strength of Talula as a lead. She sets the tone for our department. We are extremely fortunate to have Talula on our team and as a member of Rochester Regional Health. When faced with any challenge, Talula assures, she places the needs of our patients and team members first.