08/01/2026
Yesterday, I traded my CEO hat for my nursing hat and completed a patient recertification visit. As much as I love leading our agency, spending time in the field keeps me grounded and connected to the heart of what we do.
I was especially proud when my medication reconciliation showed every medication was accurate and accounted for. My patient had wonderful things to say about his nurses, and hearing him brag on them made me smile. They deserve every bit of the praise. Even better, his wound is healing beautifully, and if all continues to go well, his time with us will soon come to an end, and that’s the goal!
A few takeaways from the day:
• It is HOT out there!
• I completely understand why nurses aren’t excited about lab draw patients these days. Quest is so understaffed that the wait was long. The only upside? I got to cool off while waiting to hand off my specimen.
• People are driving like they’re in an action movie. I was nearly involved in two accidents.
• And finally… we need a raise so I can give my staff a raise!
Home health nursing takes a very special person. It requires skill, compassion, patience, and love. My patient, who is a paraplegic, and I shared laughs throughout our visit. When I walked out, I continued on with my day, but he remained in his bed with his caregiver. He told me he was glad our paths crossed. That moment was a reminder that while our visit may be just one part of our day, for our patients, those moments of care, conversation, and connection can mean so much more.
Call Beacon today if you or your family need care. 713-592/6428. You just might get to meet the CEO in person.
Lora Mayes, BSN RN CEO