When you think of a charge nurse, you more than likely think of all the responsibilities that come with the job. Terry is the charge nurse for the PCU and MICU night shift. Terry often spearheads many challenges, such as; expediting back to back admissions, transferring patients to other floors, assigning beds for new admissions, helping with staffing concerns, fixing broken equipment, and making sure the patients and her staff for the night are safe and settled. Terry has a clever way of engaging the staff, during Nurses' Week she puts together a collection between the two units, she also puts together a number of beautiful baskets and always has activities planned for the week. Terry is known for her famous homemade waffles that she makes for her staff and she also is known for preparing homemade dishes and brings them in during Nurses' Week as well.
Terry works on many projects, she often creates bulletin boards throughout the units that help with education reminders for staff, and patients. In the PCU she made a board with all staff members' pictures and names, and also created a board for Jefferson's new ICOUGH initiative. Terry has sacrificed her hard work and years of experience effectively. She is proactive when the units are very busy, and when her team begins to feel overwhelmed, she finds a way to help everything run as smoothly as possible.
Terry is quick to send a card or an incredible edible, to anyone who's ever been out sick, or dealing with personal problems outside of work. She is also known for her sweet tooth, she remembers just about everyone's birthday, and brings in a personal birthday cake, or a home cooked dish for everyone to enjoy. She helps the units feel a little less hospital-like when the holidays roll around. Terry loves to decorate the units and help make them welcoming and festive for her staff, visitors and patients to enjoy. She has organized small work parties for the staff to enjoy when working holidays, she's even brought Christmas gifts for the staff as well.
Terry has organized bridal showers, baby showers, and get-togethers outside of work. She is always thinking of others before thinking of herself. Terry is a huge asset to both units and the patients. She strives to keep things running like a well-oiled machine, and she also is a huge asset to our profession. A million thank you's won't ever be enough, but Terry we thank you over and over again! And we appreciate all that you have done and continue to do, for the staff and the patients. Thank you, Terry!