October 23, 2018 - TCO

Difference Makers: Melissa Benson

It’s tough to find something more comforting and heartwarming than a stuffed animal. Melissa Benson, RN, agrees and reminds our youngest patients that they don’t have to go through surgery alone by prepping their cuddly companions, too.

That makes Melissa one of our Difference Makers. Let’s learn more about Melissa.

What’s your title and role?

Melissa: I am a registered nurse in the operating room at the Two Twelve Surgery Center in Chaska.

How do you make a difference?

Melissa: I would like to think that I make a difference for all patients who I take care of, but the specific instance that influenced the nomination included something that I see as standard practice for all of my younger patients. If they ever bring in a stuffed animal, I always dress them up in operating room attire. I also equip them with a bandage on the same area that the child is having surgery on. I think this helps them see that their loved stuffed animal was cared for while they were sleeping.

What’s your favorite thing about working at TCO?

Melissa: My favorite thing is the people. I truly enjoy everyone I work with, and there is never a day I don’t want to come to work. I know I will always have a great team to help make the days go by.

What are your favorite things to do outside of work?

Melissa: I enjoy spending time with family and staying active in many different things.

What’s one place in the U.S. you’ve never been where you’d like to travel?

Melissa: One place I haven’t been is Hawaii, and hopefully I’ll make it there one day (or a long week).

Thank you for continuing to Be The Difference, Melissa!

Twin Cities Orthopedics has been named one of the Top 150 Workplaces for eight consecutive years by the Star Tribune, and one of the main reasons is because of our amazing team members who make a difference every day.