In honor of Perioperative Nurse Week (November 7-13), OR Nurse 2011 would like to recognize the following OR nurses for their outstanding work and unwavering dedication to their practice. Readers of the OR Nurse 2011 eNewsletter were asked to submit the name of their favorite OR nurse to be featured in a special section celebrating OR nurses. Nominations were based on candidates' ability to positively affect the lives of colleagues and patients. Their service is exemplary, and we'd like to congratulate them for earning this special recognition and constantly working above and beyond the standards set for them. These three women are OR nurses with distinction.
Diana Glupker, RN, CNOR, has worked as a hand service team leader at Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital in Charleston, S.C., for 20 years. Her incredible work ethic and personal attention to each of her patients has earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and patients. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Diana has traveled on mission trips throughout the world using her clinical expertise to help those in third world countries. Known for her attention to detail for each of her patients and extensive knowledge of the field, Diana has also worked as a clinical coach to educate new staff members. After 40 years of working in the medical profession, Diana has said that her job is still incredibly fulfilling, and many of her colleagues agree that they're constantly striving to elevate their own careers to her level. Her willingness to teach and help others in various medical environments has proven that Diana certainly stands out above the rest.
Shirley Pollard Ramsay, DNP, APRN, CRNFA, wears many hats. As CEO of Bluegrass Surgical Assistance, she travels to provide services to hospitals in and around Lexington, Ky. "Dr. Shirley," as she's known by her friends, works tirelessly on behalf of her patients. Outside of her nursing responsibilities, she donates time to Surgery on Sunday, a non-profit organization that performs surgeries for the underprivileged and provides them the medical care they desperately need. A member of the AORN chapter in Kentucky since 1997, Shirley was recently named president of the organization. Genuine, friendly, and hardworking, Shirley has said that the most rewarding part of her job is hearing patients tell her that she's made a difference in their lives. Colleagues and patients agree that she's constantly working to improve the lives of others in a variety of healthcare environments. She was recently voted Action Nurse Angel of 2011 by Action Products, Inc., a manufacturer of pressure-relieving support products.
Colleen Stone, RN, CNOR, works at St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center in Syracuse, N.Y., as a circulating nurse. She's worked in the main OR of this hospital for six years and has specialized in orthopedic service since graduating from St. Joseph's Hospital School of Nursing. Colleen's colleagues consider her a pleasure to work with and an incredibly diligent worker and critical thinker. She's known for her dedication to teamwork in the OR, and flexibility in making sure that patients receive the best possible care. Aside from consistently providing excellent and personalized care for her patients, Colleen has also served on St. Joseph's unit practice council to make changes in the processes and structure of the OR. She's a positive person and constant reminder to other staff to stay focused on solving any and all challenges that may arise. Colleen has said that the most rewarding aspect of this profession is being able to advocate for patients and properly manage their safety on a regular basis.