In the last eight years, Melissa has grown from being an intern in our Oncology Nurse Internship, to an expert clinical nurse, charge nurse, and preceptor. Melissa later became the nurse manager of Huntsman 4 and went on to achieve her Master's degree in Nursing Education. Her insight and experience in working with cancer patients led her to research the higher rates of burnout and compassion fatigue experienced by Oncology nurses. Melissa now co-chairs the Compassion Fatigue Committee, with the primary objective of providing employees with a compassionate workplace. This combined with her work as a member of the Schwarz Rounds Committee, has helped with retention of nurses caring for cancer patients.
With the increase in acuity and complexity of patients cared for at HCH, Melissa is actively involved with many ongoing projects that include: clinical trials, assisting new equipment, and partnering with pharmacy to ensure the safety of staff and visitors involved in the care of patients receiving chemotherapy. Melissa is committed to educating and mentoring new and existing staff. Melissa's clinical skill and compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that our patients, families, and staff recognize as an outstanding role model.
Simply put, Melissa Banner embodies the core values of UUHC and is much deserving of the DAISY Award.