Havasu’s Unsung Heroes: A Look at Frontline Workers with Jamie Baker

Jamie Baker is celebrating ten years with Havasu Regional Medical Center, marking a significant milestone in her healthcare career. Her journey began in high school through a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, which sparked her interest in the medical field.

Now a charge nurse (RN) at HRMC, Baker plays a critical role in managing a varying team of nurses, multi-care technicians, and essential hospital staff. The dynamic nature of her role allows her to adapt to the diverse needs of patients.

“We get a lot of travelers and new nurses who may not understand the processes,” Baker explained. “I help educate them on various aspects of our work.” Education extends beyond her colleagues; it encompasses patients as well. Baker emphasizes the significance of teaching patients about their medications and preventive care to reduce hospital readmissions.

“Our primary goal is to get people better and educate them,” she stated. “If we can keep them healthy, they can stay out of here.” As a team lead, she prioritizes the well-being of her colleagues, ensuring they take necessary breaks to recharge.

Baker’s leadership fosters a supportive atmosphere among her team. “We have really good teamwork, and we look out for each other,” she noted. “It’s about relying on and trusting one another.”

The unpredictability of her job contributes to its excitement. “I love the different scenarios and people we encounter,” Baker remarked. “It can be stressful, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I ensure we take care of ourselves outside of work.”

Despite the demands of her position, she appreciates the varied healthcare needs of patients. Baker humorously reflects on her work, saying, “I work for a vacation.” For her, the stress is outweighed by the fact that she gets to return home, a privilege not afforded to many of her patients facing serious health challenges.