Valerie Chambers-Jones of Fletcher Health & Rehabilitation Center Named 2020 CNA of the Year

TALLAHASSEE, FL - Florida Health Care Association recently recognized Valerie Chambers-Jones, a certified nursing assistant at Fletcher Health and Rehabilitation Center, as 2020 CNA of the Year. This recognition is part of FHCA's Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards, which are traditionally presented during FHCA's Nurse Leadership Program. However, due to COVID-19, the Program, along with the Awards Ceremony, has gone virtual. Nonetheless, Valerie, who was nominated by her executive director, Scott Allen, was still able to receive her official plaque as celebrations carried on at the Tampa care center, surrounded by co-workers and friends.

Valerie has over 31 years of experience in long term care, with much of that tenure spent working at Fletcher Health and Rehab. She earned her CNA license in Florida in 1989 and shortly after began working at Fletcher 28 years ago. She has gained expertise by specializing in medical records as a certified nursing assistant on the floor. Valerie has been a great example of one who provides care from the heart. Putting her residents' needs first is always her main priority. Throughout the center, her kind and supportive nature have led Valerie to become someone her peers look up to and appreciate.

As a CNA, Valerie has continually exemplified her passion for the needs of her residents. She takes it upon herself to ensure everything from bed comforters to clothing is purchased for those who need it at the facility. She is someone her patients can count on, as she regularly comes through for them no matter the issue. Valerie is also always willing to pick up a weekend shift, which are often the most difficult shifts to fill. It's truly in her nature to help out wherever or whenever it is needed. She has also developed several patient care plans that put the needs of residents first, and this has led to an increase in resident and family satisfaction. Her consideration for others does not go unnoticed, as her peers acknowledge how Valerie is always willing to put others' needs first.

Valerie has proven herself to be a team leader through her commitment to the center's medical records. She diligently works to ensure records are kept orderly and up to date on a day-to-day basis. Physicians at Fletcher Health and Rehab have come to depend on Valerie and her abilities to keep records current and precise. Valerie also showcases her qualities through the support of new staff. She has been known to effectively assist new members in understanding residents' needs and how to fulfill those needs. She can also control emergencies with ease, step up, and apply proper procedures and knowledge to alleviate the situation. Valerie is always prepared to lend a helping hand, from stocking shelves in the supply room, cleaning patients' rooms, and helping out in the center's kitchen.

The Executive Director of Fletcher Health and Rehabilitation Center, Scott Allen, shares how he "honestly doesn't know what Fletcher would be like without Valerie." Her constant efforts help make the center what it is, from her supportive nature to her dedication to staff and residents. Business Office Manager Mildred Ferreiras also shares that besides having an incredibly friendly and kind personality, she goes above and beyond on every level, never hesitating to share her healthcare industry knowledge.

"Valerie is a prime example of a successful professional in long term care," said FHCA Executive Director Emmett Reed. "Her dedication and commitment to both her residents and staff does not go unnoticed. Equipped with her strong skill set and extensive expertise, we are proud to highlight her as one of the state's best and brightest nurses."

The Excellence in Long Term Care Nursing Awards were presented during FHCA's Virtual Nurse Leadership Program, with FHCA President Marco Carrasco and award sponsor Robin Bleier of RB Health Partners, Inc. honoring these healthcare heroes for their dedication and commitment to quality long term care. Recognition was given to the 2020 Nurse Administrator, RN, LPN, and CNA of the Year, along with the Rising Star in Long Term Care Nursing Award recipient.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 19, 2020

PRESS CONTACT
Kristen Knapp, APR
850-701-3530 or kknapp@fhca.org