We’ve all heard an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but what about a smile?
For St. Elizabeth nurse Tina Baynum, a smile also has the power to heal and define a patience’s experience. As a nurse and team leader at St. Elizabeth Edgewood, Baynum makes an effort to get to know each patient, empathize with them and listen and respond to their needs. Her colleagues describe her as the perfect example of someone who makes a difference not only in her unit, but across the health care system and community.
Baynum strives to be a patient’s advocate and friend to make sure patients understand their diagnosis, their medications, and any upcoming procedures or treatments. She also speaks on her patients’ behalf to physicians, care coordinators and social works to ensure their needs are met.
Compassion even defines her leadership and is demonstrated in her genuine care for others and willingness to hear what other people are thinking and feeling. Baynum ultimately believes it’s the responsibility of those in medicine to be kind to those they serve and heal every day.
Happy Nurses Week, Tina!
