This nurse is an exemplary nurse manager as evidenced by the multiple nursing units she leads and develops. Having worked with her for many years, it is during this time that I have known her to be one of the most determined, focused, and compassionate nurses that I have worked with. She holds herself to a high professional standard in all that she does and advocates the same from those around her. Leadership has always been linked with her desire to "do the right thing."

This past year a special needs patient was on one of her units. The patient was restless and had feelings of lack of interest from being in the hospital. This nurse manager bought items for his developmental level and gave them to him, making him feel more comfortable and content despite his situation. Puzzles, activity books, markers, and colored pens were some of the items. She also spent time with him, allowing for conversation, and developed a trusting nurse-patient relationship. He looked forward to her rounding each day. At discharge, she brought him a new blanket and some clothes, including a sweatsuit, since the patient lacked resources for adequate clothing. She always shows that she wants to make things better for the patients, families, and the nurses she serves.

This past Christmas, one of our Spanish-speaking patients also did not have clothes at discharge and did not have the resources for clothes or toiletries. She brought him clothes to stay warm, deodorant, soaps, shampoo, and toothpaste. The patient was thrilled and verbalized that he knew we cared about him. Patient experience is a vital part of healthcare, and she believes in delivering effective caring and compassion to our patients and families.

A nurse leader emphasizes and demonstrates quality care that is efficient and effective. She is defined by her actions, inspiring and influencing others to achieve maximum potential. This is evidenced by her caring and concern for her staff. Recently, one of her staff's special needs grandsons was hospitalized. This nurse leader gave him appropriate developmental activities and toys. It brought so much joy to the child and also showed compassion and caring to the employee. The teammate told me she appreciated her manager before, but this was " above and beyond" what she did for her grandson and made his hospitalization so much easier.

She surprises staff with pancake mornings several times a year. All the staff love having this opportunity to eat breakfast together for a few minutes. She brings a griddle, the mix, and maple syrup. This fosters teammate engagement improving teamwork and relationships. Teammates look forward to the next "Pancake Morning." This nurse leader also created a rejuvenation room and has implemented ways for staff to take advantage of a few minutes out of their day of patient care. Our nurse leader decorated the room, and it calls to you with dim light, a massage chair, and artwork to relax and let your mind drift away from the stress you may be feeling. She encourages anyone needing those few minutes to take them while teammates watch over the patients. She also mentors teammates whose goals are to be in leadership by providing them with resources and support.

While nursing is viewed as a “calling” by many nurses, it is a demanding profession, and she wants each teammate to be able to talk to her for support by being accessible. She also works with instructors from numerous nursing schools to ensure positive student experiences and interest in future job opportunities on her units. Staff retention is a high priority, and she engages employees by recognizing, rewarding, and showing her appreciation for a job well done. This past Christmas and Valentine's, she made gift bags for each employee with useful and fun items.