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CONSTITUENT SPOTLIGHT
This week’s constituent spotlight goes to Nia Stacy, MSN, RN, of Van Buren.
I had the privilege of meeting Nia this week during my visit to Mercy Hospital Fort Smith (more on that in Photo Highlights) where she works as their clinical nurse manager. Below is a Q&A so you can learn more about Nia and the incredible work she does every day to serve the River Valley.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Northwest Arkansas and now reside in Van Buren. Arkansas is truly home to me, and I am passionate about serving our community.
Where did you go to school for nursing?
I completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith and went on to earn my Master of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University, while continuing to work in bedside and in leadership roles.
What is the best part of your job?
The best part of nursing is being able to positively impact both patients and fellow caregivers. I’ve always loved caring for patients, but over time I discovered a passion for mentoring and supporting nurses as they grow in confidence and skill. Watching new nurses succeed and knowing I helped support that journey is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.
What are the biggest challenges nurses face today?
One of the biggest challenges nurses face today is balancing the increasing complexity of healthcare with the emotional, mental, and physical demands of the profession. Nurses are expected to manage high-acuity patients, adapt to rapid technological advancements, and meet extensive documentation requirements, all while maintaining meaningful connections with their patients. Supporting nurse well-being and retention is critical to the future of healthcare.
During Congressman Womack’s visit, he shared that he wished more people understood the work happening behind the scenes in his profession, noting that there is far more involved than what is visible. I share that same perspective about nursing. Nursing is more than what people see. It extends far beyond the traditional perception of the role. I wish more people fully understood and empathized with the depth, complexity, and dedication that the profession truly requires.
I heard that you've been a huge asset in integrating the new Ambient AI technology pilot program for nursing documentation. What has it been like working with the new system, and how has it been helpful for your team?
Being involved in the Ambient AI pilot program has been an exciting and meaningful experience. One of the most valuable aspects has been seeing technology implemented in a way that truly supports nurses rather than adding additional burden. The system has helped reduce documentation time, improve the capture of patient care details, and allow nurses to spend more focused, meaningful time with patients.
It has also had a significant impact on reducing the cognitive load nurses carry throughout their shifts. Nurses are no longer required to rely as heavily on memory for tasks such as patient repositioning or assisting with meals, as the system helps ensure these interventions are captured in real time. This allows nurses to be more fully present during patient interactions, whether that is providing clinical care, offering emotional support, or even praying with patients. They can do all of this while still ensuring that these important moments are reflected in the medical record—care that exists behind the scenes but is so seldomly reflected in the patient's chart.
Additionally, the improved timeliness of documentation helps reduce delays for the next team of caregivers, allowing them to be better informed and more prepared before entering the patient’s room. Overall, the technology has opened important conversations about how innovation can enhance workflow efficiency while keeping compassionate, patient-centered care at the core of nursing practice.
Is there anything else that you think people should know about you and/or your job?
Nursing is much more than a career to me, it’s an opportunity to serve others, advocate for patients, and help create stronger healthcare teams. I’m passionate about mentorship, professional development, and finding ways to improve the experience for both patients and caregivers. I feel incredibly fortunate to work alongside our Mercy teams that are committed to innovation and compassionate care every day.
Thank you, Nia, for the tireless work you do each day to better the lives of your patients. Your passion and dedication to nursing is inspiring to us all.
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