Name, Title and Work Location
Dedrian Plater, inpatient nurse for the Women’s Specialty Unit team at the Pavilion for Women.
How long have you worked at Texas Children’s?
I have worked at Texas Children’s for 13 years.
Tell us about your role and what you do.
As a nurse at the Pavilion for Women, I care for patients and families during some of the most important moments of their lives. Every birth and every moment of healing remind me why I became a nurse. I focus on providing compassionate, high-quality care while supporting both my patients and my teammates.
What do you enjoy most about working at Texas Children’s?
What I enjoy most is being part of the team. The way we connect with patients and fellowship with one another truly makes Texas Children’s the place to be. There is a strong sense of family here, not only with our patients but also within our team.
Can you share a memorable moment from your time at Texas Children’s?
We once cared for a patient who stayed with us for about four months. She was with us through Halloween, Thanksgiving and the holidays. When she reached full term, we threw her a baby shower and decorated her room. The appreciation she and her husband showed us is something I will never forget. Moments like that remind me why we do this work.
What makes the culture at Texas Children’s special to you?
The culture is built on fellowship and coming together as one. It is inclusive, supportive and driven by excellence. That sense of unity and the high standard of care motivate me every day.
Can you share a moment when your team celebrated one another?
My team surprised me on my birthday with cookies, and it meant so much to me. From the chaplain to my coworkers to management, everyone made me feel special and truly part of the team. It reminded me how much we look out for one another.
What advice would you give to a nurse just starting at Texas Children’s?
Stick with it. We love caring for our patients and supporting our coworkers. You will feel like part of the team from day one.
Can you share a happy or meaningful patient experience?
We recently cared for a patient who was battling cancer and found out she was pregnant. Seeing how much love and support she felt from our team was incredibly touching. We embraced her and showed her that we are one team, here to provide whatever care she needed.
How does your role support the mission of Texas Children’s?
I strive to live out the mission through integrity and excellence every day. Providing innovative, compassionate care with honesty and respect is what I aim to show my patients and families every day.
Can you share an interaction with patients or colleagues that has had a lasting impact on you?
The daily interactions I have with my patients and teammates are what make me excited to come to work. We trust one another, support one another and truly work as a team, and that makes all the difference.
How did it feel to be nominated for this recognition?
I feel proud. I try every day to be a positive light in people’s lives, no matter what they are going through. Knowing that others see that means a lot to me.
I am Texas Children’s because…
Women and Children deserve innovative care.