COURTESY OF ST. JOSEPH HEALTHCARE
National Nurses Week is a special time at St. Joseph Healthcare. Each year, we work to honor and recognize the incredible work that our nurses do every day. We could not think of a better way to celebrate than by sharing a story from two of our nurses — Jamie M. Vaughn, MSN, RN, ONC and Melissa M. Slininger, MSN, MBA, RN, CNL our Orthopedic Nurse Navigators.
Growing up, both Jamie and Melissa were drawn to nursing by a simple but powerful observation: restoring someone’s mobility can completely transform their quality of life. That conviction has shaped every step of their careers at St. Joe’s.
As Orthopedic Nurse Navigators, Jamie and Melissa serve as the central point of contact for patients and their family members, surgeons, and staff throughout the entire surgical journey. From pre-surgery “joint camp” preparation to post-operative follow-up — sometimes a full year out — they guide patients through one of the most significant experiences of their lives. They play a pertinent role in the optimization of a patient’s health prior to surgery, but they also strive to reduce anxiety, improve satisfaction, and prevent complications.
What keeps them passionate is the impact. Each week they hear patients say, “I didn’t want to come, but I am so glad I did.” That moment — when relief replaces fear — is exactly why this work matters.
Behind the scenes, Jamie and Melissa are also driving process improvements, implementing evidence-based care, and strengthening the Total Joint Program at St. Joseph Hospital. Certified by DNV, reflecting high standards in patient care, the program reflects their strong leadership. Both hold advanced certifications that have deepened their clinical judgment and care coordination skills.
They describe St. Joe’s as a place where small-town warmth meets exceptional, compassionate care — and that combination, they say, makes all the difference.