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Congratulations to our Employee of the Month, Stephanie Sandler, Registered Nurse!

October 5, 2023

Bio

I am an animal lover and have 2 rescue dogs. I love being in and around water, which is probably why I enjoy being in and around the ocean as well as swimming. I feel blessed to have an amazing family, and friends that always have my back.


HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A NURSE?

I've been a nurse for 27 years.
 

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO BECOME A NURSE?

I was a preschool teacher before I decided to go back to school for nursing. I wanted a job where I could continue working with children.  I have never regretted becoming a nurse. Hands down, this was the best decision that I ever made. 


WHAT ASPECT OF YOUR JOB ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?

There are many things that I am enthusiastic about. Over the last few years, I have been very passionate about patient advocacy. I had an injury for about 3 ½ years, which was the first time I was ever admitted as a patient into the hospital. I have had five surgeries since that injury. I did not let that injury deter me from my future goals. However, I learned it can be frustrating and difficult to navigate through the healthcare system. This is another reason as to why I want to help patients in any way, shape, or form. 


HOW ARE YOU MAKING THINGS MORE POSSIBLE FOR YOUR BRIGHTSTAR CLIENTS?

I just approach every situation and every client with a laid-back, calm, and compassionate demeanor. I am always myself. 
 

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER NURSES?

It can be tough for nurses in the healthcare industry. My advice is not to give up. I have learned every facet of nursing, which has helped me throughout my career. I am still learning, which is key. 


TELL US YOUR FAVORITE NURSING MOMENT/STORY

There are too many nursing moments where there was plenty of laughter between the clients and me. Sometimes I try to make them laugh, so that they do not cry about their situation. I think that if a person does not lose their sense of humor, then they will be ok in this industry. 


HOW DO YOU RE-ENERGIZE?

I re-energize by sleep, sleep, and more sleep.


A FEW WORDS ABOUT STEPHANIE FROM AN APPRECIATIVE CLIENT:

Client David: “I'm posting in praise of Stephanie, who did a weekly good draw and dressing change for me. Stephanie was and is great--and our whole family (including 6-year old son) looked forward to her visits. She was extremely organized, competent, and efficient--and a pleasure to work with.”
 

A FEW WORDS ABOUT STEPHANIE FROM THE BRIGHTSTAR OFFICE STAFF:

“Stephanie is the definition of a go getter. She is always willing to pick up a last-minute shift without reservation. Her patients love her enthusiastic attitude, her passion for nursing, and her ability to provide excellent patient care on the day to day. She is proficient in all areas of nursing and dedicated to patient satisfaction. We are lucky to have her.”


STEPHANIE WILL BE A WEST COAST CANDIDATE FOR NURSE OF THE YEAR. ONE EMPLOYEE WILL BE SELECTED FROM EACH REGION TO BECOME A BRIGHT STAR NATIONAL FINALIST. PLEASE SEE VIDEOS OF THE 2022 FINALISTS…(and get tissue): LINK TO NURSE OF THE YEAR VIDEOS