Most people who send in a nomination for a DAISY award will select a nurse who has exhibited above average care directly for a patient. While these nurses do deserve recognition, one must consider the workings behind direct patient care. Who ensures that a department provides the very best care, comfort, and safety for each patient? Who is responsible for staff, structure, and continuity of care? Our leaders.
Often when we think of leaders, we think of the CEO and President of an organization. We see their faces in the media, read their names in print in our newsletters, and see them in the halls of our hospitals. It’s important, though, to step back and look at the special people somewhere in the middle – those who lead their department which allows the hospital to function as a whole as effectively as it does.
We are proud to nominate our bosses Chandra Graham and Heather Coulter for the DAISY award. They tackle all challenges head on and confront them with tact, grace, and bravery maintaining a no-fail attitude during the process. We most definitely could not be the team we are without our bosses/chief commanders/and fabulous people in charge: Chandra and Heather.
After an unfortunate incident occurred in early December, 2010, the adult psychiatric units were forced to undergo major changes. Chandra and Heather accepted this task knowing it would be a difficult road ahead. Countless hours were spent at the hospital and while the families of these two leaders had to spend less time with their loved ones, the hospital greatly benefitted from their additional efforts.
Chandra and Heather step up in every way imaginable. They’re often found filling in for psych techs, nurses, or other leaders to ensure staff is comfortable with their needs met, and the adult psych units are running smoothly. One of the many things that set both of these nurses apart is their ability to discuss any concern or suggestion any staff member offers. A successful leader is one who is easy to approach and who will discuss any challenge with open ears, an unbiased opinion, and a big heart.
We wouldn’t be the department or hospital we are today if not for Chandra and Heather. They have gone above and beyond any job description to contribute the very best they have to offer for CoxHealth’s Adult Psychiatry Units. They do it compassionately, exceptionally, and thoroughly. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to succeed individually, or offer our patients the best care that we all strive to provide.