Return to Main Menu

BICU’s Troiani: a model for compassion  by Cindy Abole Public Relations Institute of Psychiatry nurse Mary Troiani is synonymous with the words caregiver, comforter, friend.  BICU's Mary Trioani takes a moment to play catch with Samson, a patient. A nurse for more than 20 years, Trioani had previously worked in neurology and medical-surgery before switching to psychiatric nursing in the early 1990s. She was attracted to the budding research of Alzheimer’s specialists Jacobo Mintzer, M.D. and David Bachman, M.D. That early interest led her to work in the newly established Behavioral Intensive Care Unit (BICU) and Geropsychiatric and Alzheimer’s facility in 1992.  Not only does her work challenge the very core and foundation of nursing, but it also inspires a greater appreciation of special needs people and emphathizes  compassion and service towards others.   “Mary’s enthusiasm, dedication and untiring care are qualities that inspire and attract both her staff and patients,” said co-worker Evangelina Burgess, R.N. “She is our rock and the glue that binds our co-workers together that makes BICU a nice place to work.”  Working with a staff of eight people, students and residents within a 10-bed, closed unit, Trioani credits its success based upon respect and a team-like effort dedicated to patient care and compassion. Often the staff play different roles as detective, caregiver and companion–soothing and calming patients during anxious moments, feeding meals, balancing medications and conducting activities that stimulate long-term memory and promote interaction.  “She has an easy presence with people,” said Nadine Stanley, a BICU technician. “Mary is a natural giver who encourages teamwork and is sympathetic to patients and their families. Many appreciate her for her hard work.” IOP social worker Steve Hunt praises Trioani’s energy and compassion with others. “She’s  very accommodating with us (staff) and patients,” Hunt said. “This attitude helps everyone learn to manage well within a relaxed, nurturing environment.”  Editor’s note: At MUSC, heroes abound. They exist in the form of caregivers (both professional and volunteers), faculty, students and staff. The Catalyst's MUSC Heroes is a new column that offers employees and staff the opportunity to recognize MUSC's everyday heroes throughout campus. Send a brief note or e-mail about your MUSC hero along with your name and office phone number to The Catalyst, Office of Public Relations or via e-mail at catalyst@musc.edu.