Paula has worked at St Mary’s Hospital for 38 years, supporting patients’ families and her co-workers. She continues to be a mentor in the department through the sharing of best practices, record reviews, and shared opportunities for improved coordinated care efforts.

Paula comes in early every day, sets up the schedule, does not take breaks, finishes her work, and then goes to help others while also mentoring the entire department. Paula always makes herself available to help her team and anyone else in need in the hospital. 

Paula is caring, assertive, and a strong patient advocate. Her advocacy for the patient to receive the right cure is demonstrated daily through her experience in her work ethic and care outcomes.

I have only worked with a few nurses in my entire 25-year career like Paula. She supports quality patient outcomes and the entire department by helping everyone and mentoring case managers to ensure her priceless skills are passed on. 

Paula ensures she mentors, revises cases, provides feedback, and welcomes shadowing to support future nurse development. She is steadfast in her commitment and loyal to quality patient care.

Most recently, Paula volunteered to pilot a new innovative ER case management position. This position allows patients to be discharged directly from the ED with Supportive pathways in place to prevent delays and improve outcomes. 

This position has supported hospital quality care, customer service, patient experience, and enhanced hospital throughput. Paula has been a key player in this pilot program through participation in its development and its success. With this new innovative role, Paula has become a true healthcare pioneer.

Paula has supported thousands of patients in receiving high-quality care, connected them to community resources, and has put her life and soul into quality outcomes for her community.  I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving to be nominated for this prestigious award.