Nomination Information (excerpts)

How does the nurse you are nominating go above and beyond his or her normal duties for patients with HER2+ breast cancer?
She provides a warm, trusting human connection to women that may be fearful and are experiencing their struggle with breast cancer as a technology driven, fragmented journey. This connection is achieved through deeds and actions as well as intrinsic empathy, unconditional caring, and patience. Importantly, as the clinical nurse manager of a breast center, her presence has a positive modeling and rippling effect on others in the center, establishing an atmosphere and culture absorbed and reflected by others that work there. While requirements for the job are a substantial degree of professional nursing and administrative competence, it is the above, difficult to measure qualities, that are immediately recognized by patients. Based on their comments, and observable changes in demeanor, outlook, and emotional security, these qualities in Suzanne distinguish the breast cancer care that they experience.

How does the nurse encourage his or her patients to stay on therapy?
She spends individual time with each patient, helping them understand their treatment and what to expect, which encourages long term compliance. Much of her time is spent being physically present in clinic and the infusion suite, directly interacting and providing support for patients. Knowing that they have someone on their team rooting for them, encourages them to continue to the "finish". She does not give up on her patients, which know they are receiving the therapy they need.

What are the nurse's greatest strengths in teaching, relating to, and caring for his or her patients?
Patients feel that she is thinking directly about them and focusing on their needs. She will take on the especially challenging patient in a one on one situation. She regularly returns phone calls after hours, demonstrating a disciplined persistence and establishing a feeling of trust and reliability. She speaks on their level, as a partner in their care.

Is there any additional information you'd like to share about the nurse you are nominating?
Suzanne has been the nursing leader of our Center for 7 years. She has represented patients interests through a variety of institutional changes. With these challenges, her resolve and work ethic strengthen to meet the occasion. Her values help define a process and culture, multiplying her efforts several fold.

If known, indicate the number of years your nurse has been in practice.
20

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