Cathy came to work on 7G from the resource unit to pursue advancing on the clinical ladder, with the contribution of aiding in precepting the new staff. Once talking and working with her, I knew immediately that she would be successful in cultivating new nurses. Over the past four weeks, she has been a positive role model through her clinical knowledge/skills and her compassion for UPMC customers. Cathy can easily assess situations and suggest opportunities with solutions to improve. She demonstrates a strong work ethic that encourages others to do the same.
She also has a positive attitude and an ability to empathize with colleagues and those we serve. I have witnessed Cathy treat everyone with respect, no matter what his or her demeanor or situation. 7G patients frequently recognize Cathy during nurse leadership rounding. Examples that highlight the service excellence and compassion that she provides our patients and families are endless, but I will attempt to highlight some below.
Cathy had the ability to explain the rationales for our nursing and medical interventions while maintaining a personal connection with the family, who was struggling. She explained medications and reinforced the necessity of medical decisions, which left the patient and family not only at ease but knowing that their loved one would always be looked after. She and her orientee made the patient and husband individualized congratulations awards upon discharge. The patient and husband were so touched, that they cried with happiness upon leaving. They made a point to seek nursing leadership out to the family was so appreciative that they made a point to seek out a nursing leader to submit an above and beyond.