Infection prevention nurse named ambassador of the month

Submitted by UNC Health Johnston

SMITHFIELD — UNC Health Johnston has recognized Jessica Toole of Smithfield, an infection prevention nurse, as Ambassador of the Month.

During a recent presentation, CEO Tom Williams said Toole works diligently to put into place new processes to prevent infection. “While she’s best known for promoting hand hygiene, she is also laser focused on reducing hospital acquired C-diff,” he said. “She shares feedback with leaders and teammates and is quick to take action when she learns about a problem.”

Toole joined Johnston 17 years ago after graduating from East Carolina University. She worked for many years on the nursing floors and in employee health before moving to the quality department in 2019 prior to the pandemic.

In addition to putting into place safety protocols, her team also administered COVID vaccines to staff and monoclonal antibody infusions and injections at UNC Health urgent care facilities at Clayton and Flowers.

“Being a nurse is about juggling different things, figuring out along the way what’s best for staff, employees and patients,” she said. “Our quality team is able to make it all work.”

In addition to working on processes, Toole enjoys learning about new procedures and technology. And she still visits with patients in the hospital.

“Every day is different,” she said. “And with change, there’s always new opportunities.”

Toole, who grew up in Clayton, says the hospital feels like home. She was born at Johnston and both her daughters, Hailey, 13, and Lila, 10, were delivered there too.

Away from work, she enjoys trying new restaurants and visiting new places with her girls.

Through the ambassador program, Johnston recognizes teammates 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, Toole will receive eight hours of paid time off.