My husband and I had a conversation with Wendy Buck last week that began, “Why are you not in Administration? You certainly are qualified.” She had a similar conversation with her husband, who strongly urged her to apply. Wendy concurred that she was qualified for the open position, but that was not where her heart was. She loves nursing and caring for patients and is happy where she is. Wendy chose to stay in Outpatient Surgery because her passion is nursing.
Wendy has cared for us many times over the years, and we have always been struck by her kindness and caring. She relates to what you are feeling and anticipating. Few people eagerly look forward to having an IV needle inserted. Wendy knows this and explains each procedure thoroughly, even when there will be a needle stick. She senses tension and makes every effort to relieve it.
Trust in teamwork with family, patients and peers. I was just getting ready to leave the hospital recently and passing by the nurse’s station when I overheard a conversation with Wendy and the other nurses. Wendy had a patient’s procedure canceled at the last minute and told the other nurses she was free. She spoke up, “Let me know where you need me. I am able to help.” Wendy has that kind of attitude with her peers, family, and patients. What can I do to make this experience at the hospital easier for you? This helpfulness is displayed in her actions and caring. If Wendy says something, you trust her. You believe what she says.
Wendy is a good listener. You can see her a year later, and she will still be able to recall what you had talked about the previous year. My husband had to have infusions for his foot during COVID. Wendy continues to inquire about his foot whenever she sees him. She is focused. She is not distracted. She hones onto your conversation. Nothing is more important than you at that moment. Wendy is always the same. She is honest, open, and genuine. What you see is what you get.
A lasting connection is formed with the patient and his/her family. Even when away from the unit, Wendy will ask how you or a family member is doing. My husband saw Wendy in the main body of the hospital just this week and asked how I was doing after the procedure I had done a week earlier. Did I get the relief I had hoped for that day? Has pain disappeared? Wendy cared.
Selflessness in the situation. Even during covid, when things were crazy and stressful, and no one knew exactly what was going to happen next. Wendy stayed calm. She projected control. It was like she was saying, “This is just another day of nursing. We put on surgical gowns, gloves, and shields simply to care for patients and their families. We do this to protect our families. It is an inconvenience, but it is our job. It is what we signed up for as a nurse and more.” Then Wendy went about her job as a nurse, knowing the risks to herself and her family. Wendy did it because that is who she is- selfless and caring.

This is Wendy's second DAISY Award!