Nicole Zeiders, licensed practical nurse, was Kettering Medical Center’s nominee for the Ohio Hospital Association’s 2018 Albert E. Dyckes Health Care Worker of the Year Award. One employee from each campus is nominated for this award, which is presented annually to one Ohio hospital caregiver who personifies a leader, gives back to the community, reflects the mission and values of his or her organization, and routinely goes beyond the call of duty. You can read Nicole’s nomination below:
Great Leader
Communication and collaboration are critical to successful outcomes for Medical Rehab patients, and Nicole demonstrates this on a daily basis. She works seamlessly with physical, occupational, and speech therapists along with physicians, nurses, and the case management team–all to ensure patients receive the best care possible. She has been recognized by the therapists on her unit for her exemplary assessment and communication skills, making sure a patient’s entire care team is up-to-date. She also participates in the Medical Rehab Unit Council. She is willing to help in any way possible, volunteering to cover shifts when there is an illness or unexpected absence. The Medical Rehab Unit spans two floors of the hospital, and she frequently floats between the floors to help wherever she is needed most. She does all this with a smile and is an invaluable member of the Medical Rehab team.
Goes Beyond Call of Duty
Nicole goes above and beyond to help her patients every day, but one story in particular is a shining example of her dedication. She was discharging a patient from the unit who had been there for an extended period of time. Because of this, the patient was behind on paying bills and was being threatened with having his electricity service turned off. This meant the patient would be discharged to a home without heat. Nicole reached out to the utility company, learning that an extension could be granted if the company received a signed letter explaining the patient’s situation. Nicole leapt into action, preparing a letter with the necessary information that was then signed by the patient’s physician and immediately faxed to the utility company. Nicole then followed up with the company to make sure the letter had been received and the patient would not lose power. Because of Nicole’s quick action, the patient received an extension to pay his bill and avoided an interruption of his utilities. This is just one example of the care and attention to detail that Nicole shows her patients each day.
Reflects Mission and Values of Kettering Health Network
One of Kettering Health Network’s core values is trustworthiness, and Nicole exemplifies this on her unit. Nicole’s leader says, “I trust Nicole with our most challenging Rehab patients. I know she will always follow through. I never need to check Nicole’s work.” She is recognized by nurses, therapists, and physicians as a leader on the Medical Rehab Unit. She never presents a problem without offering a solution. She also demonstrates Kettering Health Network’s value of caring, not only for her patients but also for her team members. She serves as the designated “cake baker” on her unit, baking a cake for each staff member’s birthday.
Gives Back to the Community
Nicole also helps people outside the hospital. She works many weekends, but still finds time to serve as a soccer coach to local 3-4-year-olds through the West Carrollton Soccer Association. She also volunteers her time at football and wrestling events at Harry Russell Elementary School, filling whatever need necessary.