5 West opened in November of 2018 with an entirely new staff of RN's, NT's and UC's. Melissa has stepped up to be one of our lead preceptors for new RN staff members and also Charge Nurse. I have witnessed her give one-on-one attention to new hires to help them understand a complex protocol or answer patient care questions. She is often looked at as an informal leader by her peers. I instantly relax when I see her in the charge nurse seat as I know she will keep things moving smoothly on the floor and ask for assistance from leadership when needed.
With all the new team members on 5 East and West, Melissa has taken a special interest and passion for team building. She worked with other charge nurses on the unit to do a Valentine's Day celebration and gift bag. She came in on her day off to help decorate the unit's break room and to get the travelers involved in making gift bags so that they also felt a part of the team.