Gabriella Deubelbeiss-Mathieu, a registered nurse in pediatrics at the North Bay Regional Health Centre, was recently recognized for the impact she had on a patient and family experience.
“I was in the pediatric unit and one nurse really helped me to feel comfortable during my stay," said Faith, a grateful patient.
"Nurse Gabby always took the time to explain to me what was happening with my treatment in a manner I understood, and that made me feel much more relaxed. She was always happy and took the time to answer all of my questions. She was also very kind and positive, which also helped me through my stay in the hospital. I’m so grateful for Gabby and her compassionate care.”
Deubelbeiss-Mathieu was recognized with a Golden Heart Award which is given through the Grateful Family donation where a staff member, physician, volunteer or department is recognized by a patient or a family's patient.
"This exceptional nurse went above and beyond for a patient and their family at NBRHC, inspiring a Grateful Family donation to the Foundation," the North Bay Regional Health Centre Foundation stated in a release.
Paul Heinrich, CEO of the North Bay Regional Health Centre, believes awards and recognition like this are important - especially during these times.
"I think we have to start talking positively," said during a media conference outside Trout Creek Senior Living facility.
"I think all of our anxiety in the community level and the hospital is actually adding to the anxiety. I think the Golden Heart Award does a lot to build philanthropic culture but linked to recognition and reward. I think we all have to start walking the talk and making our workplaces enjoyable, safe and productive. I would say North Bay Regional Health Centre is leading the province in that respect."
Heinrich admits the pandemic has been hard on the hospital.
"I think morale is critically important and I think a lot of people talk about addressing it and yet they don't," he said.
"I think one of our challenges right now is we are still in a whole mix of pandemic measures, some of which don't make sense anymore. Health Care needs to get itself out of many of the pandemic measures that are actually harming morale. We had a staff luncheon and I saw the joy on the faces of people. I think a lot of people are suffering including other agencies in other communities much worse than us."
