July 2011

   Brenda Gibson
   Registered Nurse
   Intensive Care

Congratulations to Brenda Gibson, Registered Nurse in Intensive Care, on being named the recipient of the MDH APPLE Award for July 2011. APPLE stands for "Achieving outstanding Performance in Patient care, Leadership, Loyalty and Enthusiasm for MDH."

Brenda graduated from Southeastern Community College in Keokuk, Iowa with an Associate Degree of Nursing in 2010. Brenda began her employment with MDH as a Registered Nurse in Intensive Care Unit on July 21, 2010.

Brenda has proven to be a valuable asset to the ICU team. Her knowledge and critical thinking skills have developed very quickly for a new graduate. She is eager to learn and quick to master new procedures. She is efficient and has good time management skills.

Brenda has a pleasant demeanor and strong interpersonal skills. She spends time with her patients and looks at the total patient including his or her family relationships, emotional needs, and physical aspects. She is an advocate for patients and families. She always displays a positive attitude. Nursing is her profession, and she is passionate about it!

Brenda has phenomenal communication skills. Brenda is confident and is not afraid to provide her understanding of something, even to someone with more experience. She asks pertinent questions at appropriate times and interacts well with patents and their families. She is also very good about educating patients about their condition in a way that is clear and easy to understand; they understand the diagnosis and treatment after speaking with Brenda.

Brenda has two daughters and four dogs. In her spare time, Brenda enjoys reading and doing counted cross-stitch. She also likes to scrapbook and garden.