Pictured: Erica O’Mailia

Meet Erica!

Erica O’Mailia is a registered nurse in the MRH Infusion Clinic.  She cares for patients who receive chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other treatments by infusion.

“Each patient is a little different, but typically when the patient arrives I take vitals, review current medications, verify treatment, place an IV or access their port, check lab results, order the medication from our pharmacy, and then start the infusion,” Erica said. “Throughout the infusion I am checking with the patient and sometimes family members to monitor for any side effects or questions that come up. I also provide education to the patient and family about the infusion treatment they are receiving.”

According to the coworker who nominated her as an MRH Unsung Hero, Erica is a standout performer not only at the infusion clinic but throughout MRH. “Today and like many other days, Erica floated over to med surg to help another department that was busy,” the coworker wrote. “She also covers Rapid Care, family practice, pediatrics, and does the vaccination clinics and yearly sports physical clinics. Erica is a great example of teamwork across the hospital and willing to step in wherever she is needed.”

A Craig native, Erica attended school at Regis University but knew she wanted to return to Craig after her training.

“I really love getting to know my patients,” Erica said. “That’s what’s really amazing about receiving treatments like chemo in Craig—you get to know your nurses and your providers in a much smaller setting than a bigger city infusion clinic. Some of my patients I will have in the infusion clinic for almost seven hours at a time, and they come in every week or every other week. You really get a chance to talk and get to know each other. It really gives a sense of community. I really, truly love my infusion patients.”

Outside of work, Erica spends time with her children, who are fourth-generation born and raised in Craig. “They both have extracurricular activities that involve a lot of practices and then returning home to get ready for the next day of busy schedules,” she said. “My parents and grandparents are still here, and so is my husband’s family. I’m blessed to have both sides of the family in the same town.”

Erica, you exemplify the spirit of caring and community! MRH would not be the same without you. Thank you everything you do and do so well.