As early as her sophomore year in high school, Pam Reynolds knew she wanted to be a nurse. "I always liked helping people," she said. However, she said she was "shocked" about being chosen as New Island Hospital's 2001 Nurse of Distinction. "They could have chosen so many wonderful nurses in the department where I work, as well as throughout the hospital."

New Island Hospital in Bethpage nominated Reynolds, RN, for recognition in the Nassau Suffolk Hospital Council's annual nursing recognition program for its member hospitals. Each member hospital nominates a nurse for consideration for the regional nurse of distinction award.

"We are very proud of Pam and her invaluable service to our patients," said Paul E. Searle, president/CEO of New Island Hospital. "She is an outstanding employee."

After she received her BSN from Lynchburg College almost 14 years ago, Reynolds began working at New Island Hospital in the OB/GYN department. She credits her father for his encouragement, friends for their support, and fellow nurse and mentor Judy Wheaton. "I trained with her for six weeks when I was fresh out of college. She really showed me the ropes," Reynolds said.

Today, Reynolds is an assistant head nurse in the OB/GYN department and will have worked at New Island Hospital for 14 years in September. Besides working closely with the other nurses in her department, Reynolds said she finds the teaching role of her job the most satisfying.

"I am a nurse, but education is a big part of my position. We take care of well newborns and sick newborns, but we also take care of new parents," she said. "First time parents often feel nervous. It is very rewarding to answer their questions and make them feel more comfortable about going home with their newborn."

Reynolds had encouraging words for those thinking of entering the nursing profession. "Like any profession, there are ups and downs," she said. "I think people often hear a lot of negative aspects of nursing, but the truth is there are really so many positives."