Not all leaders possess a management title: in fact, leadership stems much more from one's characteristics than one's position. From the newest orientees in the hospital to the managers and administrators, all Methodist staff members truly value and respect Trisha's nursing expertise and compassion. For starters, Trisha's nursing skills and knowledge are second to none. She is one of the first to offer help inserting a difficult IV or assist staff in interpreting a suspicious rhythm on the monitor. I've witnessed her pick up a new third-degree block on a patient before the CMR room even detected a change in the rhythm. This discovery was crucial as she quickly brought it to the medical team's attention since that patient was slated to go to surgery that morning.
With such an amazing skill set, it's no wonder Trish is often asked to precept. Trish is careful and thorough in her instructions with those new to the field, hoping to instill in them great nursing and critical thinking skills. She is a wealth of nursing information, not just for the orientees, but for all nurses practicing on the unit. From questions about medications to deteriorating patient conditions, Trish is the "go-to" person to explain situations. Not only does she have the knowledge, but she likes to teach. Because she is always looking out for staff members and their development and well-being, she is affectionately referred to as "Mama Trish."
While her wisdom and knowledge are widely respected and appreciated, it's Trish's compassion that sets her apart. Some nurses as they continue on in their careers, tend to become jaded or just do the bare minimum to complete their shift. Trish treats each patient as if it is the only patient she has. The compassion she shows for them is admirable. She can be seen washing and combing the hair of an elderly patient on the unit herself, never being above such a task. Recently, Trish was pulled to a floor in which she was given a dying patient on the unit. After a careful assessment, Trish sensed he did not have much time left. She made it a point to hold hands and pray with him. That patient would end up passing later on during her shift. I truly believe she was meant to take care of him in his final hours.
Not only do fellow nurses look up to and seek out Trish for advice, but she is also widely respected by PAs, doctors, and administrators as well. When Trish calls or has particular suggestions for a patient's care, other practitioners take note and value her opinion. She is a fierce advocate for her patients - never hesitating to speak up if they need a higher level of care.
It's because of all of these attributes that Trisha Citrigno is not only one of the top leaders on B3, but in all of Methodist. Nurses, new and old, managers and administrators look to her for direction. They respect her compassion and knowledge and often seek out her advice or opinion. The patients and staff of Methodist are fortunate to have a nurse such as Trish - a truly gifted and caring individual who leads by example.