Living the Mission: Samantha DiBenedetto

It’s an extra special Mother’s Day for Samantha DiBenedetto, RN. She was recently promoted to nurse manager of the Surgical Care (S Unit) at St. Joseph Hospital—and also became a new mom! She manages to do it all and is dedicated to both roles. “Becoming a mother has completely changed my perspective on life,” states Samantha. “I would do anything in my power to give my daughter what she needs to succeed, as I would for my staff.”

Samantha began her career at St. Joseph in 2022 in the Critical Care Unit with a temporary position and found her new home. She became an assistant nurse manager of the Critical Care Unit in 2023. Truly a committed professional in her field, Samantha and her staff have maintained the highest patient satisfaction survey results for St. Joseph Hospital from December 2023 through the present, resulting in a President’s Cup win, awarded at the St. Joseph leadership meeting. In addition to PX accomplishments, she’s proud of her team’s achievements in the area of patient safety.

For Samantha, her patients and staff are the highest priorities. “I am a nurse’s nurse,” said Samantha. “In order for my staff to take care of their patients, I need to take care of them.” And her team knows she is always available. She promotes open communication and accountability, which has partly been the key to her success in leading the high-performing S Unit team. Also, Samantha knows that the little things count. She’s proud of the incredible response the installation of a coloring mural at the unit entrance has received, providing a source of visual enjoyment, stress reduction and engagement for patients, family members and even staff. This was initially installed for staff but the patients are taking advantage of it now.

Asked whether she has any words of wisdom for new health care professionals, Samantha replied, “The biggest disservice you can do to yourself is not ask questions. Motherhood has also helped me treasure the little victories so much more—and that’s what counts throughout life and throughout your career.” 

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