Susan Hering, BSN, RN, PCCN
Nurse In-Charge (NIC), Medical Cardiology, Shapiro 9/10
Nominated by Elizabeth Eagan-Bengston, MS, RN, assistant nurse director, and Lisa Preston, MSN, RN, clinical educator, with letters of support from Karen Reilly, MBA, RN, nursing director, and Catherine Hogan, MSN, RN, PCCN, clinical nurse.
Fostering a healing nurse-patient relationship and becoming the voice of her patients are intrinsic in the everyday practice of Susan Hering, BSN, RN, PCCN, of Shapiro 9/10. "The philosophy of ‘knowing your patient' is embodied in Sue's nursing care," her nominators said. "She has a unique ability to decipher their situation and will address every concern a patient or family member voices to make certain they are heard."
Hering's nominators said her love for nursing is evident in the manner in which she handles herself and cares for patients. When a middle-aged man with end-stage heart failure was going through an emotional time, Hering provided expert nursing care and also supported the man and his wife as they rode this emotional rollercoaster.
Hering helped the couple develop a daily routine that kept them connected with the health care team as well as their family and friends. "They knew and trusted her and were comforted by her presence," according to her nominators. "The connection Sue had with this couple was exceptional, but not unusual if you know her nursing practice."
After more than five months in the hospital, the man eventually received a heart transplant and was discharged.
"The care plan Sue established in collaboration with her colleagues ensured that this patient's care would be consistent even in her absence," said colleague Catherine Hogan, MSN, RN, PCCN, in a nomination letter. "The relief provided by all of her efforts was visible."
In addition to her close connection with patients, Hering also ensures she is there for her colleagues. She's the first to commend others when they provide excellent patient care, contribute to the unit's learning, master a new skill or achieve a milestone.
"When I think of Susan, the first word that comes to mind is supportive," said Nursing Director Karen Reilly, MBA, RN, in a nomination letter. "On a regular basis, Sue's patients share with me how she has made a difference in their care."
Hering earned her BSN from Boston College and her certification as a progressive care nurse. Her nursing experience also include positions as clinical nurse at Mount Auburn Hospital on the General Medical-Surgical floor and the Progressive Coronary Care Unit. She serves as a member of the Nursing Research Committee and worked this year to help complete the Beacon Award application for her unit.