Patient advocate’s early career goal was on a different kind of track
In her 19 years at Texas Health, Zstra Davis has worked at two hospitals and been a patient care technician, a unit secretary and a monitor technician. Just this year, she was promoted to her role as a patient advocate working with inpatients.
She also serves on the Culture and Connections Team and the committees for Magnet® and Healing Hands, Caring Heart at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital. Davis was on all three of those plus the unit-based council at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Southwest Fort Worth. She also has picked up hospital awards along the way.
Despite early plans for a career in a very different industry, Davis clearly has a heart for healthcare and service.
“I enjoy advocating for others to create a positive and uplifting experience,” she said. “I have the passion and perseverance to try to make sure everyone has an amazing experience at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital. I take pleasure in being the extra voice and eyes for patients and their families, staff members and doctors.”
Rebecca Calhoun, D.N.P., R.N., MEDSURG-BC, SCRN, NEA-BC, CSSGB, associate chief nursing officer at the hospital, said, “Zstra’s dedication to patients is apparent with each interaction. She truly takes the time to make personal connections and make anyone she talks to believe she has all the time in the world for you. Her positivity is infectious and we really appreciate all of her commitment and engagement here.”
Read more about Davis, in her own words:
What did you want to be as a kid, and how did you ultimately choose your career?
Growing up, I wanted to be the first female drag racing driver, but that did not work out, so a nurse was my second choice, because being the oldest child of my family I always wanted to help my parents with my siblings. I was a junior volunteer at Huguley Hospital in high school, which taught me I really wanted to be in the medical field.
I started college as a nursing major and was in my first year of nursing school when I had a tragedy happen to me, so I left school and got my clinical nursing assistant (CNA) license 29 years ago. That began my career of caring for people. I worked at a nursing home and an Alzheimer’s unit before I came to Texas Health hospitals.
Now, God has blessed me with my current position as a patient advocate at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital.
What is your workday like?
You never know what you are coming into. I say a prayer every day as I come in, to get ready for the day. Then I am in contact with the units to see if there are any immediate patient concerns. Depending on the day, I am on several committees, so I may have a meeting before going to the floors, but I can be reached at any time.
What is your favorite part of your job, and the biggest challenge?
My favorite part of my patient advocate job is making a difference in inpatient and family experience. I enjoy advocating for others to create a positive and uplifting experience. I have the passion and perseverance to try to make sure everyone has an amazing experience at Texas Health Arlington Memorial Hospital. I can bring compassion, dignity, and respect for our patients and our teams.
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I have a passion for traveling and watching drag racing in person. My dad used to be a drag racer, so I grew up in the drag racing world. I also have a passion for football – the Cowboys.
How do you do your life’s best work at Texas Health?
I strive for excellence in all areas of my life and live Our Texas Health Promise. Being reliable, caring and giving are features that I have included in my life.
