Meg Sokena
Even on their busiest days, Presby staff go the extra mile to care for patients. That was on display one afternoon this spring when ED technician Meg Sokena was working in the triage area. A physician had ordered an IV and blood work for a young man with gastrointestinal problems – and a fear of needles. As she always does with anxious patients, Sokena did her best to put the patient at ease by making conversation.
In talking with him, Sokena learned that the patient and his girlfriend, a college student, were living in their car. Sokena had helped patients experiencing homelessness apply for food stamps in a previous job, and she explained that the couple could both apply for the benefit. Then, using the patient’s girlfriend’s phone, she walked them through how to create an account.
“They were shocked to find out that there were resources out there like food stamps to help people,” Sokena said. “I felt amazing that I could make such a small difference in someone’s life and they were very grateful and appreciative.”
Sokena also gave them snacks to take with them, offered them spare clothes, told them they were welcome to take a shower before they left, and got a list of local food banks and shelters for them from the ED case manager. Taking the time to help them was all in a day's work for Sokena, said James Glatts, BSN, CEN, a nurse who watched her go out of her way for the couple.
“Her actions are worth celebrating,” Glatts said. “It's these extra steps to treat patients beyond their medical needs that can make meaningful impacts in their lives.”
At Penn Medicine, we all aspire to be Difference Makers who represent the Penn Medicine Experience (PMX) in action. PMX sets a consistent standard across all of our entities and work locations to make every touchpoint an opportunity to build enduring connections with patients, families, visitors and colleagues, which is a foundational part of the UPHS Success Share program.
Do you have a Difference Maker on your team? If so, let us know! Email Daphne.Sashin@pennmedicine.upenn.edu