Amanda Thompson, BVRMC First Embrace Obstetrics Registered Nurse and Maternal Newborn Educator, was recognized as a 2022 Iowa Hospital Hero at the Iowa Hospital Association Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 5. Thompson has been with BVRMC since 2009 and has been a valuable asset to her community.
“She is a dedicated OB nurse who has worked with hundreds of families over the years, welcoming many newborns into this world,” stated one nominator. “That alone would make her a hero by anyone’s standards, but Amanda goes well beyond her job description in serving newborns and families.”
Thompson has organized many initiatives that serve her community such as a breastmilk donation program, a breast feeding tent for moms and babies at the 4th of July Star Spangled Spectacular celebration and a volunteer Nursing Honor Guard group who provide tributes to fallen nurses during their visitation or funeral services.
Another nominator talked about the work Thompson does in developing a grief support program and a ceremony for individuals to help honor the memory of their child on Infant and Child Loss Day. “The tragic loss of her hours-old newborn daughter, Ann Muriel, spurred Amanda to become a grief advocate and to support parents facing similar losses.”
Along with community outreach and support, Thompson shows her dedication to the nursing profession through her involvement within BVRMC. Thompson has presented educational sessions to fellow nurses on a variety of topics and is a Lactation Consultant at BVRMC, providing valuable obstetrics services to patients. Additionally, Thompson is an active member of BVRMC’s Nursing Shared Governance Council, a group that works to promote, enhance and recognize professional nursing within the organization.
“Every day, BVRMC’s employees dedicate their time and energy to improve the lives of people in their community,” says CEO Rob Colerick. “Amanda is a great example of a devoted and caring health care worker and is very deserving of this honor.”
Every year the Iowa Hospital Association receives multiple nominations for the Iowa Hospital Hero award, and Thompson was one of 12 candidates who were selected as 2022 Iowa Hospital Heroes.