Congratulations to the latest winner of PAH’s Helping Hands Award – Nikki Waller, a scrub technician in Obstetrics! This quarterly award was created by the Ancillary Care Council to recognize ancillary team members in Nursing and Perioperative Services who go above and beyond to make a difference in the care and experience of each patient.
“Ancillary staff play a crucial role,” said Lisa M. Triantos, MSN, RN, CEN, NE-BC, nurse manager of the Emergency Department. “Elevating their practice and recognizing them for their exceptional commitment and hard work reinforces their value as members of the healthcare team.”
Physicians, nurses, volunteers, and even patients are encouraged to submit nominations for ancillary team members who lead by example; are proactive and responsive to the needs of patients, colleagues, and the organization as a whole; effectively collaborate with the interprofessional team to ensure high quality patient outcomes; and align their practices with the hospital’s strategic plan.
“I can’t begin to express how happy I am that Nikki was chosen for this award,” said Darcel Ruff, an Obstetrics technician who nominated Waller. “She earned it 100 times over!”
In her recommendation, Ruff describes Waller as essential to the unit and one of the best techs she has ever had the pleasure to work with. Waller often anticipates the needs of both staff and patients before they even know themselves, and she is committed to leading by example and meeting every challenge with a sense of resourcefulness, efficiency, and professionalism. Ruff also noted, “When Nikki is working, one would be hard-pressed to find a doctor, nurse, or tech who doesn’t feel like they will be fully supported by her the entire shift. I have witnessed her passion and devotion to our institution, our patients, and our staff firsthand.”