Amanda Graves has been the nurse manager at 5West for approximately 7 years now. She hired me as a new Grad Nurse and helped shape my practice as a bedside nurse. She has always had an open-door policy and always seems to have the answer to any question. I’ve watched her lead the ERAS (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) Initiative here and how it has shortened hospital stays and overall patient experience; she welcomes staff in to discuss things going on in our lives and supports us in any way possible. When I was pregnant with my second child, I had difficulty being on my feet for extended periods of time. She worked with me to figure out a schedule that would work for both the floor and for me. She always supports us when there are opportunities to work on projects, with protected time, resources, and contacts.

Her diligence to patient care is also exemplified during rapid responses. If there is something going on, you can hear her running down the hall in her heels, pushing the crash cart, putting O2 on a patient, and triaging the situation. She also can be seen rounding on the floor, checking on staff and triaging how she helps a patient with any needs.

Amanda Graves also throws the best potluck lunches/brunches. She loves to bring joy to staff and always invites all Interdisciplinary groups to join in. Even when she is detailed to another position, she is always available to her unit and is supportive of each staff member's growth, if it means moving to another position or department.

Amanda has by far been the best boss I have ever had and has truly shaped me into the nurse I am today. She has shown the difference one nurse can make in a patient’s life, on the improved practices at the bedside and the transformation in care that can transpire with the implementation of ERAS. She exemplifies excellence and raises all around her up to her level.