Faces of Nursing
Our approach is inclusive in the best sense of the word and defined by a respect for every patient’s background and beliefs. Montefiore nurses come from an array of backgrounds and experiences, yet operate with a common goal: unparalleled attention to sensitive, patient-centered service and outcomes. Ours is personalized, compassionate care of the highest order.
Meet Paula Ferrante, RNC, winner of the 2014 Joan H. Bilder Award, given to a Montefiore nurse who has consistently demonstrated excellence in professional practice.
Ms. Ferrante—who has been with Montefiore for more than 25 years—is much respected and beloved by both her colleagues and patients. Recently, she has thrown her heart and soul into guiding us through the various stages of the Baby-Friendly Hospital initiative.
The Honorable Lawrence Bilder presented the award in memory of his wife, Joan H. Bilder, Director of Nursing at Einstein Hospital from 1965 to 1987.
In Their Own Words: Our Nurses' Perspective
My Opinion Is Respected…
“I am a respected member of an interdisciplinary team. Communication and cooperation among members of this team are necessary to jointly plan, implement and evaluate care. My opinion is respected by other members of the team, and they rely on me for support. There are many challenges, and I am not always perfect, but I enjoy being an RN at Montefiore Medical Center. At the end of my shift I may be tired, but I enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that I gave my best.”
– Marlene Malcolm, RN-BC, MSN – Unit: NW1, Moses Campus
A Culture of Collaboration
“Montefiore nursing is about communicating, collaborating, implementing, following up and resolving issues in clinical and support areas. That is what sets us apart.”
– Brenda Denneny, RN, BSN, MBA – Unit: Infection Prevention & Control, Wakefield Campus
Helping Neighbors in Times of Need
“As a Montefiore associate, I have the privilege to help the patients of this borough I call home. It is a pleasure to interact with the patients once they’re discharged into the community; it gives me a sense of satisfaction to know that I was fortunate to help them in their time of need.”
– Ketty Floyd, RN, MSN, CNM – Unit: Labor and Delivery, Wakefield Campus
A Calming Presence for Patients and Families
“In the operating room, nurses are the eyes, ears and voices for patients during surgery. We are the parents who cannot be with their child. We are the calming voice the fearful patient places trust in. We remind others that this is a person, not just a surgical procedure.”
– Ann Marie Vrabel, RN, CNOR – Unit: OR, Moses Campus
Physicians Encourage Nursing Advancements
“One of the things that sets us apart as a nursing team at Montefiore is our active and meaningful collaboration with physician partners. Many physician specialists, including the critical care internists, cardiologists and surgeons, have been very supportive of advancing nursing practice, which is vital to improving patient outcomes.”
– Ed Park, RN, MSN, CCRN, CMC, CSC – Unit: CICU, Einstein Campus