Laura is an exceptional nurse and co-worker. She is constantly a positive presence, smiling face, and shining star on our unit. She is extremely knowledgeable and approachable; her peers often seek her out for advice or to ask questions. Laura is always willing to take the time to explain things and actively help someone when in need. Laura has been a preceptor on numerous occasions and is not only seen as a role model by those whom she orients, but also by staff nurses in our unit. As a preceptor, she produces confident and able nurses. She fosters positivity and confidence in nurses around the unit, and has been known to encourage coworkers to seek out opportunities for further education and professional development. Laura is adored by staff, patients, and families alike; her calm demeanor and ability to work through any situation lands her on many continuity lists.
Laura has an incredible ability to reach parents and caregivers on a personal level. She exudes confidence and caring in every patient/family interaction allowing her to develop a sense of trust and rapport with families. She frequently takes on the role of Team Resource Nurse and has even served in the charge role on multiple occasions. She is reliable in all settings.
Laura has taken many steps towards continuing her education by participating in the nursing fellowship program and earning her Critical Care Nursing (CCRN) certification. In addition to her responsibilities and extraordinary commitment to our tiny patients, she has been an integral part in the initiative to make eye exams more comfortable and developmentally appropriate for our patients. Laura comes in weekly on her day off to be present for the eye exams and works in conjunction with the ophthalmology team, a developmental specialist, and bedside nurses, providing not only support but also education to staff nurses and parents alike. She also is an active member of the NICU Advisory Council where she holds the position of VP of Recognition. Laura goes out of her way to recognize her peers and make sure their hard work and dedication is known.
Laura recently submitted an abstract outlining the Advisory Council's efforts towards improving recruitment and retention on the unit. This abstract was accepted and Laura will be headed to the National Neonatal Nurses Conference held in Nashville, Tennessee this September to present a poster outlining her research.
Laura's commitment to patients and huge heart does not stop when she leaves the unit; she is always doing something out in the community to improve the lives of those around her. Laura began volunteering with Camp Inspire a number of years ago. This camp is affiliated with The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and The Woodlands Foundation. Camp Inspire is a weeklong overnight camp which provides a personalized and adaptive summer camp experience for tracheostomy and ventilator dependent children. This year Laura was the "Lead Nurse" at this camp and worked to organize everything from the patients' medical needs to the camp talent show. Laura's commitment to her patients, those in the community around her, and her peers is nothing short of incredible. Laura puts her heart and soul into what she does and is selfless in doing so. Laura is a true DAISY Nurse because of everything she has done, and continues to do, to make our unit and our community a better place.