When it comes to Starke Hospital’s record-setting cleanliness, Candice Roberts, team lead of Environmental Services, makes sure every inch is spic-and-span. Creating a clean, safe facility builds a confidence in the hospital’s services and translates into improved patient satisfaction, according to Starke Hospital, located in Knox, Ind.
“I like to take pride in whatever I am doing,” Roberts said. “Each day I get satisfaction out of knowing that I have contributed to keeping the hospital clean, tidy and safe. I have to be aware of the needs of each department and know what is expected of me.”
For the past 11 years, Roberts has worked tirelessly to keep her workplaces clean and sanitized. She is accountable for cleaning inventory and equipment, so the tools in doctors’ and nurses’ hands are perfectly spotless. She also works in payroll, scheduling, ordering supplies, conducting safety huddles, quality checks, monitoring hazardous waste, risk assessments, inspections and making sure certain rooms are sanitized accordingly.
“When you are careful, detail oriented, and use standard procedures you get consistent results,” Roberts said. “It takes more time to do it right. You can’t take shortcuts.”
Roberts has recently been recognized for implementing a best practice related to isolation, to assure terminal cleaning is being completed up-to-standard. She has thus been awarded Employee of the Year by Starke Hospital, in recognition of her dedication and passion for her work.
Something that stands out about Roberts is her smile and willingness to help others at every turn. She takes on extra projects with the Emergency Operations Committee (EOC) to be a helping hand with EOC tours, drills and decon training. Roberts is always on the run, but she enjoys the juggling of her many responsibilities- which literally cover every inch of the hospital.
“My work is very physical and I enjoy the exercise,” Roberts said. “I could never sit at a desk all day. I enjoy being physically active.”
When working in housekeeping or service, Roberts puts the patients’ needs first, and tends to them like she would a family member. She has been recognized for her leadership by both patients and their families, alike. Her crew of six housekeepers make up her dedicated team.
“All of the team are determined, detail-oriented and hardworking,” Roberts said. “I could not be employee of the year without their support and hard work. My director Janet Gillon has also been a great mentor.”
Every day she walks into Starke Hospital, Roberts knows the importance that she and her staff carry when it comes to quality and safety, and eliminating hospital-acquired infections. Starke Hospital has been in the top 10 percent for cleanliness on their quality measures report. Her team says there is no doubt that this has been achieved because of Robert’s and her department’s flawless execution.
Continuing her education, Roberts attends school and takes online classes on sterile processing. She also works closely with emergency management in the Hazmat department and has taken FEMA courses to assist in a time of crisis.
“I could receive certification in a year,” Roberts said. “I just like to try and better myself somehow.”
Faith is also very important to Roberts, as she is an active member of her church. At Trinity Assembly of God, she is on the praise team choir and is currently trying her hand at playing the piano. Roberts also serves meals to those in need every month.
“I love the fact that they teach right from the word of God, and that my pastor and church family are focused on community outreach, offering a fellowship dinner every third Saturday of the month,” Roberts said. “Everyone is welcome. I enjoy serving at the dinners, and have sang on the worship team, and played a part in the nativity play for the community to come see.”
Her beliefs not only play a part in her private life, but also bleeds into her work. Roberts said she enjoys that the hospital incorporates faith into its company.
“The reason I think Starke Hospital is so successful is because we have a faith-based community,” Roberts said. “The staff is conscientious and willing to help one another and to forgive one another when there are conflicts. We feel like more of a family than just a workplace. The environment is very friendly and are always there for one another.”
With brilliant employees like Roberts, it is no wonder that Starke Hospital has the reputation of being an outstanding and professional hospital.
