One might think after 48 years as a nurse at Salem Medical Center, nothing could surprise Rosia Rivera, RN. However, she was indeed surprised when she received the Blue Violet Award for Nursing Excellence in July.
“I’m excited,” she said. “This is wonderful!”
When Rivera came to SMC in 1972 — 48 years ago last May — she worked in what was then referred to as 4 North. She has worked in numerous areas of nursing, and now splits her time in recovery, pre-admin testing and same day surgery.
“I love helping patients,” Rivera said. “Also, mentoring new nurses is very rewarding.”
Rivera is also a Certified Gastroenterology Registered Nurse and the Periop team’s “go-to in Endo,” according to Director of Perioperative Services Justine Murphy, BSHA, RN.
“Rosia has dedicated her entire career to our hospital and community,” Murphy said.
Fellow Operating Room Nurse Christina Bowers, RN, said Rivera epitomizes the nursing profession.
“She is compassionate and selfless as well as knowledgeable with critical thinking and professionalism,” Bowers said. “Her integrity is impeccable.”
To nominate a nurse for the Blue Violet Award for Nursing Excellence, scan the QR Code found on posters in all elevators, find nomination forms throughout the hospital or visit https://www.smc.health/smc-staff-recognition-awards/.