"Steverino " (as we often call him) works in the Hemodialysis unit at Shadyside Hospital. He has only been here for 18 months but he has already become a favorite of patients and staff. He easily mastered hemodialysis and is quick to help his co-workers to get their patients in bed, put patients on dialysis and take them off dialysis whenever the need arises. He is also very willing to help his colleagues by trading days and even working extra on-call shifts when asked. When we suddenly get busy and the number of patients is greater than what the current number of staff can safely handle, Steven will often come in on his days off to help. And he does this all with a smile and a great sense of humor.
He is a one-of-a-kind nurse. It is a true pleasure working with him. Work days are so much more enjoyable when laughter is in the air. He is so personable and outgoing with everyone—regardless of what department they're from. To know him is to love him.
Steven is very giving of himself outside of work as well. He has kindly volunteered to organize the upcoming Family House dinner that will be sponsored and prepared by staff from the Hemodialysis Unit. The theme is an "All American Dinner". The menu will consist of Corn Flake crusted chicken, scalloped potatoes, coleslaw and rolls. Dessert will be chocolate/pumpkin sheet cake. Steven has generously offered to purchase the food in advance. Staff will then reimburse him. Several nurses from the dialysis unit will assist Steven with preparing the food, serving it to approximately 50 people at Family House and then cleaning up.
In my 35 years as a nurse, I have never known anyone like "Steverino". His clinical skills and especially his compassionate care exemplify the kind of nurse that our patients, their families and our staff recognize as an outstanding role model.