Paige Robinson has been named Polk Medical Center’s 2013 Nurse of the Year

Media release: Paige Robinson has been named Polk Medical Center's 2013
Nurse of the Year, as part of the hospital's celebration of Nurses Week.

Robinson, who works in Polk's Emergency Department has been with the
hospital for 22 years. Missy Puckett, Director of the Emergency Department
says attitude is everything when describing why Robinson deserved this
honor.

"Paige has a big heart and you never see her without a smile on her face,"
Puckett said. "She always does what is best for the patient and we are
proud to have her as part of our team."
Robinson's commitment to service has made a lasting impact on patients in
Polk County.

"We often have patients ask for Paige by name," Puckett continued. "It
could be because she has treated them before, or maybe she treated a family
member or friend. Either way, they know that she will put their needs
first."

The award came as a surprise to Robinson who was quick to cite how deserving
the other candidates were.

"I've worked with many of these folks for years and I know how good they are
at what they do," she said. "I was just honored to be nominated so this is
a great feeling."

Robinson believes her ability to relate to patients has helped her become a
successful nurse.

"I work hard to be a good listener and often draw from my own experiences
when providing," she said. "I want them to feel like they have an advocate
in me."

Pam Mears was named runner up for Nurse of the Year. Like Robinson, Mears
works in Polk's Emergency Department and has been with the hospital for more
than two decades.

Polk presented two other awards as part of the ceremony. Mary Jackson
received the award for Certified Nursing Assistant of the year, while
Candice Shead was named Nurse Technologist of the Year.

These awards are presented each year during Polk's recognition of Nurses
Week, which takes place annually in May and honors nurses for the care they
provide.