On The Night Shift

Healthcare is a round-the-clock business. Whether it’s 2 pm on a Thursday or 5 am on Halloween, someone will always be in need of care. For more than 290 SBH employees working the night shift, life is a little bit different.

While the rest of us are getting ready for bed, they are putting on their uniforms and prepping the units for patients. But their day doesn’t end when the sun rises. They also have families to care for and day-to-day activities to attend to. In honor of these unsung heroes, we put a spotlight on the members of the night shift.

Carlos Breton
Security Officer

“The only difference about working nights is that the sun is down. I look forward to the challenges; it’s why I’m here. This is not just a job, it’s a calling.” There’s always an opportunity to do good in the ED. When a patient needs help, we drop all of our differences to execute one goal. And when we succeed, the bond between us gets tighter and we feel a sense of accomplishment. This is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.” (A special thanks to Carlos and his Bright Idea submission. The ED now has new signs, making the unit a more patient-friendly area.)

Trisha Arno, DO
Chief Resident, Emergency Medicine

“I wanted to work in the ED after volunteering here during college. I like making an impact in people’s lives and the diversity and practicality of emergency medicine. From acute primary care to life-threatening situations, we see it all. The night shift can be challenging and be hard on your sleep schedule, but it also reinforces teamwork. I recommend everyone doing a night shift.”

 

Mina Attaalla, DO
Chief Resident, Emergency Medicine

“Emergency medicine was my first choice and SBH was my first choice. I like the variety, the academia, and the procedural skills. At night, there’s less staff and turnaround time is not as quick. But you are never bored and always kept on your toes.” Dr. Attaalla will be staying on as an attending and becoming the ED director of medical informatics and simulation education.

 

Frank Pratt
Security Officer

“Depending on the day, the night shift can be a hectic place. Keeping the patients and employees safe is my main priority. I like to be of service – whether it’s making sure patients know where they are going or getting the help they need.”

 

 

Donna Reid, RN
Mother/Baby

“As a native of the Bronx, I know the culture and how to cater to our patients. I’ve always been a people person and I like science, so becoming a nurse was a natural choice. The night shift has been good to me. Being a parent, I don’t miss out on the important things. When my children are asleep, I get to come here. This is a joyous place to work in. At night, it’s more quiet and you can really focus on the patient.”

Christine Zhuang