Tamara Graham, licensed practical nurse

Trust, accountability and ethical leadership define the most respected professionals in healthcare. Tamara Graham, a licensed practical nurse, takes responsibility for her own actions and does not blame others when things go wrong.  

During a recent night shift, while working at the second-floor nurses’ station, she heard the exit door alarm from the memory care unit below. Trusting her instincts, she rushed downstairs and found a resident attempting to escape down the stairs. She quickly and calmly redirected the resident back to safety. Instead of placing blame, she supported the health care aide who had been assisting another resident at the time, reminding them of the importance of acting quickly in such situations. 

Tamara leads by example in maintaining patient safety. Recognizing that a newly admitted resident with a history of falls was struggling to settle, she proactively adjusted the team’s safety checks to every 30 minutes. Her attention to detail ensured the resident remained comfortable and secure during a vulnerable transition. 

Her integrity extends to her interactions with colleagues. She is willing to listen and speak out when necessary to prevent or resolve conflict. When she noticed tension between two health care aides on the same shift, she took the initiative to address the issue privately, de-escalating the situation. Her ability to handle conflict with professionalism fosters a supportive and respectful work environment. 

Through her accountability, leadership and dedication to ethical care, Tamara is an invaluable team member. She is a sincere, hardworking nurse who cares about the residents in her care and her colleagues.