On Friday, May 30, Department of Medicine staff and residents gathered in Carrie Hall to honor those nurses who not only provide exceptional patient care but also mentor and guide the newest members of the hospital’s medical staff during their first days and months at BWH.
“We are fortunate to work with nurses throughout Brigham and Women’s/Faulkner Hospitals who demonstrate excellent service and commitment to care each and every day,” said Erica Mayer, MD, medical resident and chair of this year’s event. “And today, we are celebrating seven special nurses who have gone above and beyond to serve as outstanding teachers, mentors and role models.”
Of the 44 nurses nominated, Katie O’Hara, Muriel Gannon, Dori Zuppe, Gina Silver, Georgia Litsas, Audrey Martino, and Jeannie Hutchins were selected by a committee of medical residents to receive 2003 Medical Housestaff Nursing Awards. Offering anecdotes about their experiences, medical residents personally presented each award to the nurses whom they nominated.
“Working in oncology was one of the most challenging rotations, as patients not only have complex medical needs but also complex emotional needs,” said David Andorsey, MD. “While taking care of the sickest patients, Muriel Gannon was an amazingly calming influence for the patients, but also for their families and the housestaff.”
While each nurse was recognized for his or her unique contribution to mentoring and patient care, the common characteristics among all nominees and awardees was clinical skill, teamwork and a positive attitude that has helped to guide these medical residents through their first days and months at BWH. Each of the 2003 awardees was presented a certificate and a lapel pin.