Mercy Cedar Rapids

Recently, employees and hospital visitors had the opportunity to meet Mercy’s new family of advanced patient simulators -- including newborn, multipurpose, comprehensive, and labor and delivery patient simulators -- when they were on display for the day. Those who stopped by had a chance to assess the new features of the simulators, which are designed to deliver exceptional training through an immersive experience. The Mercy Foundation is investing in this type of new equipment to advance education and professional development for Mercy staff. The new advanced patient simulators are just one of several investments that Mercy makes into its clinical staff. For example, the hospital also covers the cost of our interns' required core class, alongside their internship. This can be a costly expense for nursing students, and interns at other hospitals may have to foot the bill. And, to reward our nurses who pour into the next generation, Mercy also offers premium pay to those who host a nursing student for their preceptorship. Join our team! Check out Mercy's open positions at: https://lnkd.in/eU8JP6NR

We can't wait! The History Center opens a new exhibit on January 23. This exhibit celebrates 125 years of Mercy Medical Center’s unwavering commitment to the Cedar Rapids community. Special thank you to our exhibit sponsors: Pete Welch and Marlene Meyer Teed Welch https://lnkd.in/eE-5Y9Uh

Congratulations to Carl, PT, who was recently recognized with Mercy's highest honor -- the Catherine McAuley Service Award. Here, he is joined by his family, Dr. Quinn and retired coworkers, who returned to Mercy to surprise Carl on this special occasion. This award is given annually to an employee who exemplifies the spirit and ministry of Catherine McAuley -- the first Sister of Mercy -- through their tireless service to others; doing all things with care and compassion; and advocating for the least among us. Carl received five nominations! Below are just a few short excerpts: "Carl is a pillar of The Mercy Touch in every aspect of his life. He has been with Mercy for over 35 years. He truly cares for patients both as a Physical Therapist in their rehabilitation journey, and as a person who genuinely wants the best quality of life for people and to let them know they are important ... He utilizes his personal time to provide a human connection continuum of care that is rare and so special, making people know they are cared for beyond just their medical diagnosis." "He is a constant example of the Mercy Touch and who we all should strive to emulate." "For decades, Carl has given 110% effort to his patients, their care, and their outcomes with compassion. He treats every single patient with respect and dignity. His standard is going above and beyond." "He is a strong advocate for the patients he cares for ... He has a way of connecting with the patients he works with." "Truly special and cares so much for each patient. I wish they made more PTs like him!" Well done, Carl! We are so grateful for you!

Kudos to MercyCare Business Health Solutions, which was named one of the area's coolest places to work! The Corridor Business Journal’s Coolest Places to Work recognizes local companies that create the most engaging and rewarding work environments. Among the other honorees, MercyCare Business Health Solutions was recognized on Dec. 4. Congratulations to this great team for this wonderful honor!

Congratulations to Birthplace Nurse Kelsey, who recently received The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses! "The moment Kelsey walked into the room, we were at ease," her nominator wrote. "She explained things so well and made me feel comfortable ... she went above and beyond to help me progress through labor. Kelsey even stayed over her shift to help me deliver our beautiful baby. "Kelsey holds a very special place in our hearts as we're not sure we would have made it that whole day without her. Thank you, Kelsey." Well done, Kelsey! Way to deliver The Mercy Touch to this Birthplace family!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Mercy Medical Center, MercyCare Community Physicians, and the Mercy Foundation! Blessings and Happy Holidays!

Talent Tuesdays will pause for the holidays on December 24 and 31. Join us on Tuesday, January 7, for the first Talent Tuesday of 2025!           Learn more about Talent Tuesdays, Mercy’s weekly walk-in interview event, at: https://bit.ly/43rCQYF 

Today, employees, volunteers and retirees are coming together for the annual Mercy Christmas dinner! During three serving times to ensure all shifts can receive a meal, leaders from throughout the hospital are serving stuffed chicken breasts, ham, spicy chickpea curry, buttery whipped potatoes, gravy, green beans, spinach maple pecan salad, dinner rolls, beverages and desserts. Special thanks to our Food & Nutrition Services team for preparing this tasty meal!

Meet Finley, one of Mercy's therapy dogs (with the official Mercy volunteer badge, too)! Her people are Susan and Vance, volunteers us at the Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy. Susan greets guests at the front desk and is always willing to fill in when the team needs extra help at the nurses station or the front desk. Her husband, Vance, brings Finley to visit the patients and staff every Thursday. Recently, Finley got to get dressed up for her trip to the Hospice House when she visited on the day they were decorating Christmas trees! We're certain she brings so much joy to everyone not only on that particular day, but also each time she comes in. Thank you, Susan and Vance, for sharing her with the patients, families, staff and volunteers at Hospice!

Last, but certainly not least, is our final 2024 Annual Provider Award winner: Hall-Perrine Cancer Center Surgical Oncology's Vincent Reid, MD, FACS, (left) received the Michael Daly, MD, Humanitarian Award! Dr. Reid actively shares his time and expertise for public health benefits to help reduce gaps in health equity and community access measures. His reputation as a gifted physician with a big heart is widely known inside and outside the Mercy community. Congratulations, Dr. Reid! On behalf of Mercy and MercyCare Community Physicians, it’s our privilege to recognize all of the nominees and offer our congratulations. We acknowledge and appreciate the gifts you share with the patients and staff at Mercy and are thankful for the many contributions you offer daily.