Susan W. Hunnewell Professional Development Award: Collaboration

Elizabeth D’Agostino received the Susan W. Hunnewell Professional Development Award for collaboration.

Elizabeth D’Agostino, BSN, RN, of Braunwald Tower 12AB/14AB Intermediate Medicine, strives to identify what is most important to her patients and how they can achieve those goals together, often requiring collaboration among many teams and disciplines.

“Effective collaboration starts with the patient,” she said. “I strive to be my patient’s advocate and work to collaborate with our interdisciplinary teams, including physicians, PAs, nurses, unit coordinators, Transport, Biomedical Engineering and Food Services, to create an individualized care plan to maximize patient health, safety and satisfaction.”

Chantal Massena, MSN, RN, noted that D’Agostino has quickly become a valued team member on the unit. “She has a niche for handling the overall stress of nursing in a way that promotes a supportive and healing environment. With the high prevalence of medically complex patients that we care for, Elizabeth continues to professionally collaborate with all team members in order for the patient to receive the best care.”

Massena recalled an instance when a code was called for a patient being transported off the unit. “Elizabeth stepped into action,” Massena said. “She handled this code with composure, professionalism and exceptional teamwork. She has multiple traits that make her a great co-worker, including her communication skills and professionalism. It is evident that nursing is Elizabeth’s true calling.”

D’Agostino also works to be a resource to nursing students and new nurses, sharing her experiences and tips to benefit those completing clinical rotations or coming off orientation.

“Our unit culture allows individuals to have a safe place to learn without judgement,” she said. “I’ve already experienced how much nursing is a team-driven profession by consistently working and collaborating with my nursing colleagues.”