March 2025 WOW Award Winners - Amanda N. and Derek W.

The WOW Patient Experience Initiative recognizes team members who engage with patients/families, visitors and employees in exceptional ways, providing a superior level of commitment and reflecting the values of Wood County Hospital. Amanda Naus, RN in the Emergency Department, and Derek Woods, nursing supervisor, were recognized at the May 2025 leadership meeting as WOW award winners for their compassion and for going the extra mile for a pediatric patient.

In late April 2025, a pediatric patient at WCH underwent a surgical procedure with plans for discharge that same day. However, following surgery, the patient developed sustained hypertension (high blood pressure) and tachycardia (increased heart rate). Due to these concerning symptoms, the surgeon recommended admission for observation.

With no pediatric nurses scheduled in the Acute Care unit, admission into the unit was not possible and a transfer had to be arranged. The surgery team quickly secured acceptance at Toledo Hospital; however, transport would not be available until 4 a.m.

By the time the night shift arrived, the patient had already been in PACU for four hours. The house supervisor was contacted to help determine a care plan while waiting for transport. Derek Woods responded quickly, reaching out to the ED director and Amanda Naus, RN charge nurse. Amanda came up with a plan to board the patient in the Emergency Department and Alexa Gregory, RN, was the primary nurse who cared for the patient. The ED tech was also able to arrange an earlier transport with an ETA of 11:45 p.m.

Thanks to this fast and compassionate teamwork, the patient received continuous care and was transferred much earlier. In a stressful and uncertain moment, staff from across departments came together to support not only the patient but also his worried parents. Their quick thinking and kindness brought comfort and reassurance when it mattered most.

Originally from Wayne, Ohio, Amanda now lives just outside of Bowling Green and has worked at WCH for nearly three years. She enjoys the small-town feel and family-oriented culture of the hospital and especially values the close bond she shares with her ER team. Amanda spreads positivity by being silly and making people laugh, which helps create a supportive and uplifting environment. Outside of work, she enjoys walking or running with her dog, Ranger, camping, boating, cheering on her kids and baking or cooking when time allows, all while enjoying a good cup of coffee and listening to Taylor Swift in the background.

Originally from Malinta, Ohio, Derek attended Northwest State Community College and has been with WCH for 10 years. In addition to his role as house supervisor, he also works in acute care and enjoys being a reliable resource for all departments. He stays positive by offering support and helping others find solutions to challenges throughout the hospital. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time outdoors around the pond with his wife and three sons, and many might be surprised to learn he once worked in a metal fabrication shop before becoming a nurse.