Rachael Nelson Helps Patients Behind the Scenes and Serves as Role Model for Others
Rachael Nelson, clinical lab scientist at the Baptist Blood Bank, has been with the organization for nearly eight years. She began as an intern during her last year at UWF while pursuing her degree in clinical lab science.
In her role, Rachael assists in finding safe, compatible blood products for those who need them; examples include post-trauma patients, chemo patients or anyone in need of transfusion services. She also helps review data to ensure compliance and trains students and new hires in validation processes.
Rachael takes pride in knowing patients behind the scenes, from the inside out.
“The things we see under a microscope or in a tube can have a huge impact on a patient’s diagnosis,” Rachael said. “Our team may not be visible to patients, but one of the things I love about the lab is getting to know our patients in a different way, from the inside out, so to speak.”
Rachael says her job would not be as rewarding without her team.
“I love my role in the lab because it allows me to aid in patient care behind the scenes, and I get to work with the best people,” Rachael said. “My job would not be as rewarding without them. The people here are so kind and helpful.”
Rachael prides herself on maintaining a positive attitude and assisting as much as possible. She strives to provide the best patient care. Her great work shows, as she was recently awarded Team Member of the Month among her peers.
A fellow team member wrote this about Rachael:
“Rachael constantly rises to the challenge to set a perfect example of Baptist values. She takes on additional tasks outside of her responsibility. Rachael has been involved in helpful inspections, a curriculum update for other clinical lab scientists, peer reviews and audits for various needs in the blood bank. Many people look up to her, and we’re lucky to have her compassionate care and daily displays of our culture.”
Rachel was awarded her honor at a special event and received a reserved, prime parking spot for a month.
Her favorite project she’s worked on so far is revamping the Blood Bank student curriculum.
“It hasn't been updated in about five years, and we've had a lot of changes in that time,” Rachael said. “It was rewarding to do that and have a student tell me that they've scored better on their Blood Bank exams after rotating in our department and going through our training.” She credits her team and her spouse for her success.
“I'm grateful to be at a job where I get to work with great people and good friends,” Rachael said. “I don't think I could do it without them. My husband is also my support from day to day, teaching me about perseverance and optimism.”
When Rachael isn’t leading by excellent example at work, she can be found gardening, playing Pokémon or spending time with her family—husband and cats.
Rachael, thank you for all you do for your team, for patients and for our community! You help make Baptist special.
Want to be part of our Baptist team and culture? We are currently hiring clinical lab scientists. Apply to join our team.
