Emergency Department RN Travis G. Receives WOW Award for Outstanding Patient Care

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. Travis G., RN - ER, was recently the recipient of the WOW award winner for going above and beyond.

When Travis received a call to the WCH ER from a distressed individual facing an emotional crisis, he recognized the caller’s intent to harm himself. Travis responded with a steady and compassionate presence, keeping the individual on the line while alerting Morgan, RN, who immediately contacted the appropriate Police Department to assist. For more than 30 minutes, Travis maintained a calm and supportive conversation, ultimately convincing the caller to allow law enforcement officers into his home and, with further encouragement, to let them escort him to the hospital.

The individual specifically requested to come to Wood County Hospital—despite other facilities being closer—because of the comfort and reassurance he felt speaking with Travis. Showing remarkable dedication, Travis stayed beyond his scheduled shift to meet the patient upon arrival.

Travis, originally from Napoleon, Ohio, now resides in Maumee and began working at Wood County Hospital in June 2024. He appreciates the close-knit atmosphere and the unique challenges of working in a rural hospital setting. “I enjoy working in a place that encourages critical thinking and hands-on critical care,” he shared. His previous roles include four and a half years at Henry County Hospital’s Emergency Department and another four years at the Corrections Center of Northwest Ohio, experiences that prepared him for challenging situations like this crisis call.

When asked how he maintains a positive attitude, Travis reflects on his purpose as a nurse: “I stay positive by remembering my ‘why’—I became a nurse to give back to someone in need.” He spreads positivity by reaching out to his colleagues, offering a friendly smile and lending a hand to anyone who seems to be having a difficult day.

We are proud to have Travis on our team and grateful for his compassion, dedication and support to patients, colleagues and the community