Living the Mission: Lisa Pollicino

For 21 years, Lisa Pollicino, RN, has been an exemplary role model and beloved by patients and colleagues at St. Charles Hospital. As a registered nurse in the delivery room, Lisa cares for newborns and their family at the hospital. She often receives grateful letters from patients and was recently a recipient of the Sister Martha Winum Award. This award recognizes individuals who embody the spirit and compassion that Sister Martha demonstrated throughout her 72 years of dedicated service at St. Charles Hospital. 

I always knew I wanted to help others in some way,” said Lisa, who met her husband of 47 years after attending her first nursing class. “When I chose nursing as a career, meeting the "man of my dreams" wasn't even an option. Our careers in nursing is definitely the glue that has held us together.” Her husband also currently works at Catholic Health as a registered nurse for Catholic Health Home Care.

The timing of her assignment in Labor & Delivery was opportune. “I initially worked on a medical/surgical unit until I was offered a position in Labor & Delivery. As I was pregnant with my first child at the time, I also thought it would be great to get some insight into labor and delivery,” stated Lisa. Her new position proved to be an excellent fit. “I loved the world of moms and babies and even started teaching Lamaze class. But my real satisfaction and joy was helping couples with their delivery. It was a privilege to share such an intimate, life-changing moment.” 

Lisa’s caring nature shines through in her community outreach endeavors, as well. Several times a year, she collects donations for the underserved. She redeems cans and bottles from the hospital, donating the proceeds, and encourages her colleagues to save diaper and formula coupons which she distributes to those in need. 

She lives by her guiding motto: take life of one day at a time—or sometimes one shift at a time—and always stay focused on the present. “As a nurse, regardless of what unit you are working on, it’s important to always remember the vulnerability of the patient and how it translates to our ability to make a huge difference in their hospital experience.” 

Lisa truly exemplifies our I-CARE values. 

Read more Living the Mission stories.