Collaborative Excellence

How teamwork continues to elevate patient care

Inspired by his international work experience as a nurse, Hans Chin was compelled to bring the knowledge he had gained working in a range of medical settings and make a meaningful impact at Sunnybrook. Today, as a Code Stroke Nurse, he plays a crucial role as one of the first faces patients see when they enter the emergency department. He is accountable to remain with patients beyond the end of his shift to ensure they receive the right care, at the right time, from the right clinician.

Recently, Hans was recognized with the 2024 Sunnybrook Award for Nursing & Clinical Excellence. This recognition speaks volumes about his commitment to exemplary patient care and his embodiment of Sunnybrook's values in his daily interactions. While playing multiple clinical roles at Sunnybrook, he is also an avid patient and nurse advocate. He supports patients and families with a calm, informative approach during a critical period in their illness trajectory. Hans’ nursing care has been positively impactful, receiving gratitude from previous patients for transforming a traumatic experience to an empowering one.

Hans’ commitment to service and compassion makes a tangible difference in the lives of patients, families and colleagues. We spoke with Hans about his work and the impact of donors on achieving excellence in patient care.

Sunnybrook: What does it mean to receive the Award for Nursing & Clinical Excellence?

Hans Chin: Nursing is a unique profession where you get to interact with patients daily and see the impact you have on people’s lives. At Sunnybrook, it really is a team effort. This award is not just about me; it is the whole team. Receiving this award acknowledges that I’m on the right path. Early in my career, I had a lot of questions about whether or not I was good enough. This award really elevated my confidence as a professional.

SB: What does excellence in patient care mean to you, and how does it manifest in your approach?

HC: We are bravely trying new things and pushing boundaries, one step at a time. I’ve seen the importance of not giving up as patients begin their recovery. Many people do have a disability after a stroke. Even still, there is always hope with physical therapy. Patients are awesome and I see the hard work and effort they put in after our job is done.

SB: Tell us about the collaboration at Sunnybrook in ensuring holistic care for patients.

HC: Being part of Team Sunnybrook means that we all have a voice. There is a general desire and hunger within our team to be at the top of our field. Our procedures are very well thought out and yet we are always looking at new ways to improve our processes collectively as a team, including participating in real life simulations.

SB: How are you seeing the impact of donors in the work you do?

HC: As a donor, you are planting a seed when you give to Sunnybrook. You may not see it right away, but you’ll see it in research that may help to improve stroke response times, and it will impact thousands of lives. When a patient becomes a donor to Sunnybrook that really shows me the impact we have had in their lives. Donors improve technology and facilities and contribute to research opportunities, all of which helps to attract and retain the very best skilled professionals to Sunnybrook.