From New Grad Nurse to ICU leader, Stephanie’s Impact at Elliot

Intensive Care Unit Resource Nurse, Stephanie Joyce, BSN, RN, CCRN, TCRN, began her career at Elliot Health System in 1999 as a Licensed Nursing Assistant before transitioning into a new graduate nurse role in the Fitch Unit. After five years she found her calling at Elliot’s Intensive Care Unit. 
In her role as a Resource Nurse, Stephanie supports both patients and team members while helping coordinate patient flow, align patient needs with appropriate levels of care, and respond to some of the hospital’s most critical situations, including rapid response and trauma activations. Beyond her clinical responsibilities, she serves as both an advocate and leader—ensuring the voices of frontline team members are heard and contributing to the ongoing growth and development of the unit. 

Stephanie has played an important role in several key initiatives, including the Epic implementation and the ICU’s achievement of earning Beacon Gold recognition—a testament to the team’s excellence in patient care and a strong commitment to evidence-based practice. She was also a vital support to the team during the opening of the Adult Step-Down Unit this past March. 

Stephanie is especially proud of the positive culture within the ICU today and believes what makes Elliot unique is the strong sense of teamwork, support, and commitment to high-quality nursing care.  Early in her career, she recognized opportunities to help shape a more transparent, collaborative, and learning-focused environment. Throughout her tenure, she has helped foster a space where team members feel empowered and supported while remaining focused on delivering the best possible outcomes for patients. 

Known for her unmistakable laugh and genuine care for others, Stephanie brings energy, compassion, and leadership to every patient and team member interaction. 

When asked what her advice she has for new nurses, she shared: “Never stop learning and always lean on your team.” She believes collaboration and a patient-centered approach are the foundations of success in healthcare. 

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys spending time at the beach, reading, crafting, and being with her husband, Jamie, and their three children. What she loves most about the ICU is not only the impact she can have on patients’ lives, but also the meaningful relationships she has built with her colleagues along the way.