The Erie VA PRRTP Nursing Staff is a small, but mighty group of compassionate, collaborative, and dedicated nursing staff. When the program started over 5 years ago, the team joined the Erie VA with minimal experience in behavioral health nursing specifically, but with an abundance of energy, creativity, and willingness to learn. There are many examples of times in which the skills demonstrated by members of this nursing team served to save lives. In one instance, a keen-eyed nurse noticed a Veteran leave the unit with a backpack, deviating from his typical routine. Her attention to detail and quick action allowed staff to intercept this Veteran before getting too far into his plan to walk home to Ashtabula, despite heading in the wrong direction. Another time, a nurse's unrelenting advocacy ensured proper medical follow-up that resulted in an early cancer diagnosis and related treatment. In a similar situation, nursing staff's follow-up regarding concerning test results ensured a Veteran received a proper cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment.

Despite the small size and relative youth of the program, there have been countless times when former residents have reached out to thank staff for their concern or to tell the team that their time here was "life-changing." These calls are likely often prompted by receipt of a birthday card from the program, a thoughtful touch created and maintained by one of the  team's LPNs. Veterans in the PRRTP often come to us at a very difficult time in their lives when they are struggling to exhibit behavior that aligns with their values. The PRRTP nursing team must routinely employ strategies for setting boundaries, doing so compassionately and in a manner that maintains the dignity of Veterans. They demonstrate kindness, concern, humor, and a fundamental respect for the humanity of the Veterans we serve. Not only do they provide excellent care, but they also support each other. Rarely does the program rely on mandatory overtime, because the team works together to ensure unit coverage. They collaborate, cooperate, and communicate to quickly accomplish tasks or provide information. It is difficult to recall the countless examples of this team's effectiveness. Because their reliable competence and dependability are so steadfast, I am certain there are times when I take them for granted. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon to be reminded of how grateful I am for this team when a nurse goes above and beyond, proactively addresses an identified concern, or takes that extra step to make the life of the Veterans or their coworkers easier. No matter what I say, however, it pales in comparison to the appreciation felt and expressed by the Veterans who have been in the program. Here are just a small sample of comments Veterans made on their satisfaction surveys during FY24 alone: 
“Care for people. Keep doing everything you’re doing. You guys are the best I have seen.”

“What an amazing team/demonstration of professionalism, empathy, courtesy, and care was evident daily!  Thank you! You helped redirect a life.”

“Continue doing what we’re doing respect & care for Veterans. Staff is phenomenal. Taking time to make sure all needs are met.”

“Feeling that I was cared for…that staff actually gave a shit. Staff are amazing.”

“Nursing staff was amazing- best rehab I have been to. Keep things the same. Excellent.”

“The staff’s attention to solving problems by finding solutions particular to each Veteran made me feel like my recovery was important.”

"Nursing staff excellent, supportive, kind, respectful. Never once felt belittled by any of the staff.  Everyone always went over and beyond to help. Staff really cares.”

"Humbling to be treated with respect.”