Shon’tiana Butcher Named ENA Connection 20 Under 40 Honoree
Forensic nurse empowers patients through compassion and evidence-based care
In the chaos of the intense lights, loud voices and hectic environment of the Emergency Department, a kind, quiet voice breaks through. She has served as a beacon for hundreds of patients who have experienced violence, helping them to find their own voices during their most vulnerable moments.
That voice belongs to Shon’tiana Butcher, BSN, RN, CEN, a forensic nurse examiner at Christiana Hospital. In her role, she provides comprehensive care for patients who come to the ED with suspected violence-related injuries, including sexual assault, domestic violence or elder abuse. Butcher helps patients feel comfortable as she provides specialized treatment and documents evidence.
“For me, the heart of nursing is making sure patients feel seen, heard and understood,” she said. “That’s why I take the time to explain everything I do, so they know why we’re doing it and feel empowered to be a part of their own care.”
‘Growth makes us better’
For her tremendous commitment to emergency nursing excellence and advancing patient care, Butcher was recently recognized as an ENA Connection 20 Under 40 honoree by the Emergency Nurses Association. The event celebrated emergency room nurses for their exceptional service to their communities, patients and fellow nurses.
‘Shon’tiana ensures her patients feel safe and supported as soon as they enter into the emergency room. Her dedication to uplifting patients and tending to their sensitive needs makes her a wonderful caregiver and role model.’ — Krystle Gandhi, Chief Nursing Officer for Newark Campus.
Butcher said she was humbled to learn about the recognition. Not only was it an opportunity to celebrate her work, but also a platform to serve as an example for the next generation of health care professionals.
“It’s a little surreal to think of myself as a role model for new nurses, because I still feel like I’m learning and growing every day,” Butcher said. “But maybe that’s exactly the message I hope to leave to others – that no matter where you are in your career, you should always stay curious, keep asking questions and remain open to change.
“Growth is what makes us better clinicians and, ultimately, better people.”
‘Keep showing up’
Butcher’s dedication to maintaining high care standards has also earned her ChristianaCare’s Dot Fowler Award, a ChristianaCare Way Award and the 2024 Compassionate Champion Award from the Delaware governor to the Forensic Nurse Examiner team. But her passion extends beyond recognitions. She finds inspiration in her Emergency Department team, the Forensic Nurse Examiner program, family and her patients. She strives to “keep showing up” at school, at the hospital and in the courtroom when supporting patients.
“The greatest reward is seeing the gratitude from patients who simply needed someone to show up for them – that’s what reminds me why I do what I love,” Butcher said.