Marcia K Brown
May 2025
Marcia K
Brown
,
LPN
Outpatient MH
James J. Peters VAMC
Bronx
,
NY
United States

 

 

 

Whether mentoring new staff members, assisting in challenging situations, or offering words of encouragement, Marcia embodies a spirit of unity and respect.
Commitment to Teamwork
Marcia Brown consistently demonstrates the values of teamwork and collaboration. She plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth clinic operations by working closely with nurses, physicians, and administrative staff. Her ability to foster a supportive and cooperative work environment strengthens the overall efficiency of the team. Through her proactive approach, she helps facilitate seamless communication and coordination, ensuring that patient care remains the top priority. Dedication to Collegiality is at the heart of Marcia's interactions with her colleagues. She is known for her warm demeanor, professionalism, and willingness to support her peers. Whether mentoring new staff members, assisting in challenging situations, or offering words of encouragement, Marcia embodies a spirit of unity and respect. Her ability to create a positive and inclusive atmosphere enhances morale and fosters a culture of mutual respect within the SRS clinic.

Excellence in Patient Care
Marcia's commitment to patient care is evident in every aspect of her work. She goes above and beyond to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care and attention. Her compassionate approach, active listening skills, and clinical expertise make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. She consistently advocates for patient needs and takes extra steps to provide comfort and reassurance, particularly in the sensitive field of substance abuse.

Her dedication and tireless efforts contribute significantly to the success of the Mental Health SRS Clinic. It is with great appreciation and admiration that we recognize her achievements and honor her with this well-deserved award.

***

Marcia's impact on both her colleagues and patients serves as an inspiration to all, reaffirming the vital role of ancillary staff in delivering exceptional healthcare services.

EXAMPLE: Scenario: Utox Room, Managing an upset Methadone Patient Setting: 5B MH clinic's urine toxicology (utox) room, where patients provide urine samples for drug screening. Nurse Brown is overseeing the process. Patient: JD, a 45-year-old man on methadone maintenance therapy, has been sent for a utox screening. He appears agitated and impatient. JD: "This is ridiculous! I don't see why I have to do this every damn time. You people treat me like a criminal!"

Nurse Brown: (calmly, maintaining neutral body language): "I understand this process can feel frustrating."

JD (crossing arms, raising voice): "Now you're going to watch me pee like I'm some junkie off the street?"

Nurse Brown (in a steady tone, using de-escalation techniques): "I hear that you're upset about the process. It's not about mistrusting you, it's just the clinic's standard policy for all patients on methadone. If I were in your shoes, I might feel frustrated too, but let's try to work together so you can get your medication this morning."

JD (grumbling but slightly less aggressive): "Yeah, well, it's still humiliating."

Nurse Brown (emphasizing respect and control): "I totally get that. My goal is to make this as smooth and respectful as possible for you. Would you like a moment to yourself before we begin?"

JD(sighs, less tense): "Yeah, fine, and I'm sorry."

Nurse Brown: "Take your time. When you're ready, we'll get this done, and you can be on your way. Apology accepted."

Outcome: JD started off hostile, feeling targeted and disrespected. Nurse Brown used active listening, validation, and a calm demeanor to de-escalate his aggression. By acknowledging his frustration and offering some control, she defused the situation without conflict, allowing the process to continue smoothly.