Cheree Deck is a phlebotomist in Akron Children’s outpatient lab.
Every day at Akron Children’s, we strive to deliver compassionate care and create positive experiences for our patients and families. This month, we’re spotlighting Cheree Deck, a phlebotomist in Akron Children’s outpatient lab, who recently received the following feedback from a patient family:
“Cheree (Deck)…you drew my little kiddo’s blood yesterday late morning. I just wanted to thank you for being so kind, gentle and loving to my son. You made sure I was okay too! You told me about your kiddo and his binky and all his drawings you have kept as a “newish” mom. You made me feel normal. I too am a single mom raising a son (my husband passed away…). Not only did you show kindness to my kiddo, but to me too! I can’t thank you enough for being so gentle with my son. You checked his arms more than twice to see if you could get to his tiny vein and instead of trying, you decided to use his hand where the vein was visible. You have found your calling. You are amazing at what you do! Thank you for treating my kiddo with love, compassion and gentleness. It meant more than you will ever know.
How long have you worked at Akron Children’s, and what’s your role?
I’ve worked at the hospital since last September as a phlebotomist in the outpatient lab, but I’ve been a phlebotomist for 18 years. I started as a state-tested nursing aide, working in a nursing home, but found it difficult to lose patients. I’m a caregiver and an empath by nature, so I wasn’t good at turning off that part of the job. That prompted me to switch to phlebotomy, where I wouldn’t necessarily know everything my patients are going through.
Reflecting on this patient experience and the feedback you received, how do you feel about it?
I feel great because that means I’m making a positive impact whether it’s for that moment or a lifetime. I always try to make my patients feel comfortable. You don’t know what people are going through when they come to you. It really means a lot to be recognized, but I don’t do it for the accolades. I hope I’m able to touch my patients in the moment, whether they remember me or not. It’s the little things, those special moments, that you need the most.
When drawing blood from young or anxious patients, how do ensure it’s a positive experience for both the child and parents?
I love kids, and I love what I do. I make it a point to comfort everyone in my draw room. I take my time to explain the procedure to the parents and the child, and I always ask if it’s their first time. If the child is young, I’ll make it a game and let them touch the vein I find. Including them in what I’m doing makes them feel comfortable in an uncomfortable situation. Body language is also important, whether I’m rubbing a baby’s hand or kneeling down and getting on the same level with a crying toddler to show them they have my attention.
What does patient- and family-centered care mean to you? How do you strive to deliver that care?
It means putting the family and patient first. I look at it like everyone in my room at the time are my patients. I try to pick up on what the family needs and take care of the whole family. Although my son is 22 and a senior at Kent State University, I’ll never stop being a parent. I treat my patients like they are my own and go the extra mile like I would for my own son.
What do you most enjoy about your work at Akron Children’s?
I love children, giving hugs and hope. I truly believe God uses us to impact people. Children are so resilient and full of hope. No matter what they are going through, they can still find a reason to smile. They don’t know how not to have hope. That makes it easier to look for silver linings and stay positive for others.
