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In This Issue:
Mary Lou Moore, MSN, RN, CCRN
As part of BWH Bulletin’s series on what qualities define a leader, Mary Lou Moore, MSN, RN, CCRN, director of Cardiovascular Nursing and Clinical Services and recipient of the 2002 Thomson Leadership Award, discusses the importance of courage.
When a nurse suffering from a progressive disease came to Mary Lou Moore in tears, Moore helped her find the courage to persevere.
“Courage is about introducing yourself into the most delicate and sensitive circumstances and giving strength to others,” Moore said. “It’s about helping people find their own inner confidence.”
The nurse Moore helped that day was struggling to find a way to broach the subject of her disease with her colleagues. When the disease’s physical manifestations became obvious and the nurse became increasingly upset, Moore suggested she write a letter explaining her condition to her colleagues.
“Everyone was extremely supportive and respectful and tried to make this nurse feel comfortable,” Moore said. Thanks to Moore’s support, the nurse found the courage to be more comfortable with herself as she copes with the disease’s worsening symptoms.
From guiding staff through difficult situations to helping cardiac patients at the end of their lives, Moore has exhibited courage throughout her tenure at BWH. In 2003, she initiated Compassionate Care Rounds, monthly discussions that support care providers dealing with death.
“As a leader, you must be sensitive and perceptive to the needs of others and encourage them to become leaders,” Moore said.