Emergency Department nurse named Johnston Health Ambassador of the Month

Submitted by JOHNSTON HEALTH

SMITHFIELD — Johnston Health has recognized Judith Lauren Murray, a nurse in the Smithfield emergency department, as Ambassador of the Month.

During a recent presentation, CEO Tom Williams said Murray works well under pressure, steps in when teammates need help and is always willing to teach nursing and EMT students. “She’s always an advocate for patients,” Williams said. “She’s compassionate, caring and always asks what they and their families need to be comfortable.”

Murray says she enjoys working in the emergency department because of the opportunity to immediately help patients feel better. “I love learning and working alongside doctors, nurses and other teammates,” she said. Murray didn’t consider nursing as a career until her aunt, Audrey Massengill, a nursing administrative coordinator at Johnston Health, pulled her aside and suggested she give it a try. At the time, Murray was a student at Johnston Community College, working at a local animal shelter and hoping to become a veterinarian.

Murray has another family tie to the hospital. Her grandmother, Ann Coley, worked as a CNA at Johnston Health Hematology and Medical Oncology for several years before retiring. During her tenure, Coley was recognized as an Ambassador of the Month and selected as the first Johnston Health Ambassador of the Year.

Inspired by both relatives, Murray took a prerequisite course to become a certified nursing assistant. She discovered she enjoyed caring for people just as much as she did for animals. From there, she applied to nursing school at JCC, finished her degree in June 2018, and has worked at Johnston Health ever since.

In her spare time, Murray enjoys reading, writing and spending time with her pet chihuahua. She’s also taking care of 16 stray cats that need homes after a neighbor moved away and left them behind.

Through the ambassador program, Johnston Health recognizes employees who go above and beyond the call of duty. They deliver quality care, foster teamwork and offer excellent service.

In addition to a designated month-long parking space, Murray will receive eight hours of paid time off.