Donna Johnson-Wier likes challenges, especially meeting deadlines. “If I have a challenge, I keep on going until I get the project done,” she said. “I like to be punctual and meet the deadlines and achieve what is required.”
The Surgical Services Specialist was especially instrumental in getting the Operating Room ready for The Joint Commission (TJC) inspection. Coming on board in April 2016, Donna worked with the Surgery Team and other departments such as Maintenance and Facilities, Ambulatory Care Services, and Biomedical Engineering to meet the national standards in patient care. This year, thanks to every member of the Health Care Team, TJC granted Kuakini Medical Center accreditation for three years.
“When the Joint Commission inspectors came, there were deadlines to get certain things done, things that have to be in place… That involved getting the support from the staff and other departments. Everyone played a role in meeting the expectations and deadlines.”
As a Surgical Services Specialist, one of Donna’s duties is serving as a liaison between doctors, surgeons, anesthesiologists and staff. “When you know that you have to have it within a week, you need to start preparing for that,” she said. “I follow up and make sure there is good communication and support within the team.”
This strong work ethic has earned Donna recognition as October’s Employee of the Month. According to her nominator, these characteristics set her apart: “(Donna) sets goals for herself and the department, can be depended on consistently to complete assignments on time, (is) very positive and self- motivated, respected by physicians and staff, and a great team player.”
Prior to Kuakini, Donna worked as a charge nurse in the Surgery department of another hospital. She said she loves Kuakini. “It is so different because it is so family oriented and everybody is really helpful and supportive. It does not have the hustle and bustle of some places,” she said. “I love the team. They really are into (providing) the best patient care. They are willing to take the extra mile and be an advocate for the patient.”
“Administration is very supportive. You’re not out there on your own. They give guidance which is a big deal to me,” she added, emphasizing how her superiors provided independence to find solutions and at the same time guided her in the right direction.
Donna’s free time is spent enjoying her two sons; tending to her garden of flowers, vegetables and herbs; going to the beach; walking and bicycling. She also loves to ski, which she does when she’s on the mainland. Congratulations, Donna!
Source: http://www.kuakini.org/wps/portal/public/Join-Our-Team/Employee-of-the-Month/October-2017/blank
Disclaimer: This page has been published as a part of our 'Caring Employers Recognition Program - CERP'. In case of any edits / feedback on this article, please contact our support team and we will be happy to co-operate.