Spotlight On Bette Jo Green
Congratulations
to the following Starfish Award Recipients
Bette Jo Green, RN began her nursing career at The Boston Hospital for Women/Lying-in
Division in 1973. Having previously completed her undergraduate coursework in
social work, Green later turned to nursing, drawn by the idea of helping people
both emotionally and physically.
“I just really enjoy people,” said Green. “I like getting
to know them and learning what they are all about. Nursing provided the hands
on experience I was looking for.”
In 1977, Green joined the labor and delivery team at the Lying-in, helping
new mothers through the journey of childbirth.
“Labor and delivery is an incredible process to be involved in,”
said Green, explaining what a special time it is for families. “Every
single childbirth experience is unique. Although it can be overwhelming, difficult,
joyful and sometimes sad, if I can help make the adventure more comfortable
and put the family at ease, it is incredibly rewarding.”
Green was recently presented a Starfish Award in recognition of the outstanding
emotional support she provides to patients and their families as well as to
other colleagues.
“This special award reflects what patient care is all about,” said
BWH President Gary Gottlieb, MD, MBA,during the Starfish Recognition Event on
November 8 in the Bornstein Amphitheater. “The intensity of care we are
able to provide, our ability to understand and put our arms around a family
member and realize the stress that is present in patient care is so vitally
important.”
“The compassionate care Bette Jo provides really captures the spirit
of the Starfish Awards,” said Maggie Hickey, RN, nurse manager, CWN 5.
“She is a gentle, kind person, who is so giving to her patients. Bette
Jo wants people to have the best possible experience during childbirth, and
she makes sure it happens.”
The award came as a complete surprise to Green, who had not anticipated attending
the Starfish Recognition Event until the last minute.
“I felt a little overwhelmed, as there are so many caring people who
do wonderful work here at BWH,” said Green. “It was really wonderful
to see people like Don Covey of Valet Parking Services and the Department of
Patient and Family Relations receive awards too. Every person at BWH is important.
We function best when we all work together. I just feel so honored to be a part
of it.”