In the fast-paced, dynamic environment of the Emergency Department, it takes a special kind of person to consistently bring positive energy and compassion to both patients and colleagues. Health Care Assistant Lindsey Vukicevic is one of these incredible people and is a recipient of a Fraser Health Hero Award for her admirable impact.
Photo: Lindsey Vukicevic, health care assistant
Raising the bar for quality improvement and uplifting others is part of Lindsey Vukicevic’s mission in her work as a health care assistant at the Surrey Memorial Hospital Emergency Department.
A pillar of positivity, she is known for leading by example with a compassionate ear and a reassuring smile.
“She brings such joy and fun and laughter to the workplace for our team," says Charlotte Klemencic, interim director, Emergency Services.
She is committed to service, acting with empathy and making a difference to others every day.
Although the Emergency Department is a challenging environment, Lindsey’s presence brings calm to those experiencing a crisis.
“Every day in Emergency we are the first person our patients meet entering the hospital. They are going through one of the hardest times in their lives — being sick, in pain, scared or hurt. Our job is to say: ‘How can I help? I'm going to be here with you every step of the way, and you'll get through this,’” Lindsey explains.
Learn more about Lindsey’s inspiring work:
She is a true role model of patient-centred care and her passion for helping others is contagious.
"In an environment where we experience lots of stress and sadness and grief, Lindsey just has the ability to put a smile on people's faces,” says Charlotte.
Lindsey attributes this to simply loving what she does.
“When you find your passion in life, happiness follows. I love what I do, and helping people get better is my passion,” she says.
Lindsey’s team is inspired by the work she does and the ways she does it.
“Lindsey goes above and beyond in every aspect of her role,” says Kelli Chorpita, patient care coordinator. “Whether she’s offering a warm blanket to a patient in distress, guiding a family through the hospital or simply sharing a kind word, her actions really make a difference to the patients in our care,” she continues.
Lindsey shares the same admiration for her team.
"It is an honour to be recognized. In health care, there is a huge interdisciplinary team working together in collaboration on the front line and behind the scenes to give the best patient care. This award is not about me, but my team — the Emergency Department — and being recognized together. I am just a small piece of one of the best teams in the health care system,” she explains.
With her people-first mindset, Lindsey is a passionate advocate for quality improvement.
“She is always looking for opportunities to see how she can help improve the care of our patients and nurture the Emergency Department Team. She actively participates in the department’s Quality Initiative Council, bringing forward ideas and helping implement changes that enhance the patient and family experience,” explains Charlotte.
“She's an advocate for our patients. She's compassionate and empathetic and always looks for opportunities to put the needs of our patients first," she continues.
Lindsey’s positive impact extends to her fellow colleagues and other areas of the hospital, too.
“She is a driving force behind the department’s positive culture, transforming the staff room into a welcoming space for every holiday. From baking 300 cupcakes for Christmas to dressing up as the Grinch and visiting the pediatric ward, she brings joy and celebration to a team that often works through the toughest of days,” says Crystal Sutton, manager, Clinical Operations.
Kelli agrees. “She has the ability to make everyone feel seen and supported. Patients ask for her by name, and families often share heartfelt feedback about the comfort and care she provides,” she reflects.
As for Lindsey, her life’s work is all about people helping people.
“The secret is very simple: People helping people every day is the reward in itself. Being part of a patient’s first step, holding a hand, or even just making them smile or laugh — and letting them know it’s going to be all right — makes every moment special.”
Congratulations to Lindsey Vukicevic – recipient of a Fraser Health Hero Award.