Stories of Florence Nightingale’s compassion, bravery, and leadership have shaped modern nursing and influenced and inspired millions. As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of her birth, we are honored to shine a light on today’s #NurseHeroes on the front lines by sharing some of their stories.
This is Sherard’s story.
“One thing I’ve learned is not to be afraid to ask for help. Nursing is a team effort.”
Describe why you chose to become a nurse
I decided to become a nurse because i like helping people. I wanted to be a part of providing care that would help people recover from their illness.
Describe your most rewarding day on the job
The most rewarding day on the job for me would have to be once when a patient unexpectedly coded. We were able to immediately respond and initiate CPR within seconds. By the time the code team arrived everything was already in place. With our assistance they were able to save her life. The feeling after you save a life is incredible and also knowing that there is amazing team to support you is equally rewarding.
Describe your most challenging day on job
The most challenging day on the job was when I was the charge nurse and we were a little short staffed. At around 6AM, we got a really sick direct admission that needed a lot of help and medical interventions to stabilize him. At the same time a different patient became unresponsive. It’s hard to lead your team when you have to be in two different places and utilize critical thinking skills for both. However, we were able to upgrade the unresponsive patient in a timely fashion and then help the other patient by getting him blood, fluids, and having a physician evaluate him.
Do you have any nurse hacks or lessons learned in the field you would like to share with others?
One thing I’ve learned is not to be afraid to ask for help. Nursing is a team effort.
What’s a favorite quote of yours?
“Faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains” – Matthew 17:20
For those looking for a way to help others, is there a charity you suggest?
I would choose Make A Wish Foundation because I absolutely love that children with critical illness are able to have one major wish come true. I love that I could be a part of making a child smile after they have given all that they have, physically and mentally, to fight such horrible diseases.
Thank you for all you do, Sherard!
Sherard’s Nomination
Sherard is often the charge RN when I work. We have been working the night shift together for about 2 years. She goes above and beyond for the patients and staff. Every shift you’ll find her taking vitals, getting finger-stick readings, bathing patients, assisting with med pass – all along with her long list of charge RN responsibilities. She will contact the provider, the lab, she will even go get patient meals – it never feels like we are drowning or lost when she is there. She has truly made our night shift unit feel like a family. When the COVID units first opened in GBMC she volunteered twice in place of immunocompromised staff – and she has a 4 year old daughter that she cares for at home. She is a great leader on the unit; the first to arrive and last to leave. It is a privilege to work with Sherard, and I hope in this short message you can see her caring and compassionate spirit that exemplifies GBMC’s mission to the community.
Greater Baltimore Medical Center
Thank you for helping us honor Sherard and the profession of nursing, Shannon. We salute you!
Do you have a story to share?
While our team at ShiftWizard believes all nurses are heroes, we’d like to hear who you feel has gone above and beyond. Help us honor a fellow nurse or nurse leader whose actions have inspired others in these unprecedented times, and let’s celebrate nursing together!
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We are honored to support our frontline teams and we are here to help you meet your challenges head on.
Send your nurse story to us at info@shiftwizard.com or let us know how we can help you.
