June 2020
Laura
Harmon
,
DNP, RN, ACNP-BC, CWOCN, CCRN
Adult Central Campus DRH/HUH/HWH Hospital
DMC - Harper University/Hutzel Women's Hospital
Detroit
,
MI
United States
It is well overdue to recognize an extraordinary leader, mentor, educator, role model, and most importantly compassionate nurse. On many occasions, she has shown her support and compassion for nursing by working at the bedside when needed. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Harmon never missed a beat. She was here almost 7 days a week to make sure she was supporting her team in every way possible. She never showed distress or concern. We had no choice but to be strong because our leader was strong and made sure we knew she had our backs. One Sunday all of the acute care managers received a call that a unit had a number of nurses out sick and we were needed to come to provide support. By the time the managers arrived, Dr. Harmon was already in full PPE and at the bedsides of the patients caring for them. She had already developed and implemented a plan, which made us feel at ease. It was then we recognized the true leader, mentor, and compassionate nurse that she is. That day and so many others just like it will not be forgotten. She not only put herself at risk by being on the frontline but also her family, just to ensure the patients were safe and her leadership team was supported. Dr. Laura Harmon supports her team by being understanding and supportive by allowing temporary changes to our shifts so we can continue working and still care for our families. For example, one manager worked midnight's so she could care for her father at home while strengthening her relationship with her midnight staff. This level of flexibility and understanding encourages loyalty not only to Dr. Harmon but to the DMC system. Her representation of the DMC to managers implies we are here to support you with both work life and home life. She is about providing safe patient care ALWAYS. This is why we would like to recognize Dr. Laura Harmon as a DAISY Nurse Leader.