After leaving DDI in 2012, Sheila Thurman, BSN returned in 2017 and resumed her role as the Nursing Supervisor for DDI's Adult Residential Services. "It is a calling to be in this field," Sheila stated. "I came back to DDI with the goal of fostering a cohesive and collaborative nursing department where people share ideas and experiences and learn from one another."
DDI provides residential services to 65 children and more than 200 adults with autism and other developmental disabilities throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. The nursing staff serve as vital members of the clinical team and work closely with the individuals and staff in each residence to provide the highest quality of care.
"Our department is always looking for new talent and we often discuss how to attract nurses to our field," stated Sheila. "We decided to order buttons that read, Ask me how DDI supports my nursing superpowers, which not only had people outside of DDI inquire about our organization but also helped new employees ask questions about our roles, responsibilities, and careers in nursing."
As a token of appreciation for the nursing team, Sheila Thurman and Linda Eisman-Cadel, director of the children's residential program, hosted a Nurses Day appreciation breakfast at the Meadow Glen campus. The nurses were treated to food, fun, and games including a make your own terrarium table, a game of Operation, and Pin the Tail on the Donkey.
Congratulations to the winners of the day, Amber Fazio conquered the Triangle Peg Challenge, Jean Cicotte and Jessica Bartholomew were steady-handed as the winners of Operation, Jessica Bass won Pin the Tail on the Donkey, and Andrea Rowe scored two tickets to the PGA Tour at Bethpage Black.
Jeanette Muurisepp, RN supervisor stated, "At DDI, I am called upon to assist with many issues. I appreciate how willing and efficient the various disciplines are to get back to me and offer their expertise. Medical, psychological, nutritional and related service providers are always working together as a team to provide the best care for our individuals."