Several nurses, including Cindy Relyea, Maureen Harris and Joyce Kunz-McCaffrey, spoke about their role in educating staff about the importance of receiving the flu vaccine. They described how they often dispel myths about the vaccine and educate staff about the importance for healthcare workers to be protected against influenza, as it is the best way to protect our patients, many of whom may be immunocompromised.
They also stressed that flu vaccination is the best way to prevent flu illness and serious flu complications for you and your family, including those that can result in hospitalization. Joyce noted that when it comes to getting a flu shot, education is the key, so she will often encourage staff who are reluctant to get the flu shot to do their own research and provides them with links to credible websites, such as the Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov).
Mary Paciella, NP, Director of Employee Health and Wellness Services, spoke about the vital role the department plays in implementing workplace health and safety programs and ensuring the success of these programs. In addition to educating staff about the influenza vaccine, the department is responsible for evaluating staff injuries and accidents, maintaining employee health records and assessing the work environment for potential health and safety issues in compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations, as well as New York State Department of Health and Infection Control Policy.
The department also develops health promotion initiatives and provides counsel for employees on health and wellness issues such as tuberculosis testing follow up, smoking cessation, nutrition and vaccines. Maureen noted that Employee Health and Wellness is not just a place where staff schedule annual health assessments; rather, employees view the office as a safe space where they can feel comfortable and obtain advice on a host of health issues.
The staff often acts as an advocate for colleagues. Maureen said, “We’re not just nurses. We’re teachers, social workers; people come to us for advice about issues they are dealing with in their lives. The key is to listen, because people want to feel heard and cared about.”
Joyce, who has worked at Stony Brook University Hospital for 31 years, worked in many departments, including MICU, CCU, SICU and the Burn Center. She noted how great she feels to work in a department in which she is able to educate colleagues on the importance of preventative care.
“A lot of people don’t have primary care physicians or receive regular check-ups,” she said, “so a visit to employee health for an annual health assessment may be the only time they receive information about preventive care. I make sure to answer all of their questions so that they don’t feel rushed.”
The team in the Employee Health and Wellness Department shared that the days go by quickly when they work together and enjoy each other’s company, as well as serving our Stony Brook University Hospital staff. They make personal connections and those with annual appointments are astounded that the staff remember conversations from former years and establish positive connections.
The passion for their work is clearly exhibited, and it was a pleasure to visit with the team and learn about the services offered to our Stony Brook Medicine colleagues. It was clear that they are a close-knit team who truly enjoy working together.
Flu season has not officially arrived, but if you haven’t yet received your flu shot, please do. The amazing Employee Health and Wellness team is ready and waiting to accommodate you!
Carol
