Nurses are often the first and last face patients see when they come into a hospital for treatment and can provide a lot of comfort in a time of need.
The month of May is filled with various weeks celebrating healthcare professionals, so Pearl River County Hospital and Nursing Home decided to dedicate one large event to recognize the hard work of all its employees, Community Outreach Coordinator Jo Lynn Davis, RN, said.
During a ceremony Wednesday afternoon, the hospital recognized employees with at least five years of consecutive experience.
But one employee in particular received the most recognition for her more than 30 years of service at PRCHNH.
Jo Baxter, LPN has spent the last three decades working within various departments of the nursing home.
She currently works as a medical billing specialist, ensuring paperwork is filled out properly and sent to the state for reimbursement.
“Without her position, we wouldn’t be able to stay open,” Director of Nursing Lou Jones said.
“She’s caring and devoted to her residents; she does anything she can do,” she said.
Interim Administrator Amanda Kirk also addressed the room, telling staff that it’s important to recognize the service each staff member has given to the hospital.
“Make sure you tell these people how much you appreciate them,” Kirk said.