Samantha DiBenedetto, MSN, RN: Leading with Compassion and Excellence at St. Joseph Hospital

Driving Exceptional Patient Care through Expertise, Leadership, and Collaborative Teamwork

Bethpage, New York – St. Joseph Hospital, part of the Catholic Health System of Long Island, proudly recognizes Samantha DiBenedetto, MSN, RN, for her exemplary leadership as Nurse Manager of the Surgical Care Center (S Unit). With a robust background in nursing and a commitment to patient care, Samantha has become an invaluable asset to the healthcare team at St. Joseph Hospital.

In her role as Nurse Manager, Samantha is responsible for the overall operations of the unit, including managing staff performance, workflow optimization, and operational efficiency. She also leads the formation of multidisciplinary teams to drive improvements, set goals, and ensure targets are met. Samantha oversees staff scheduling to ensure adequate coverage, balancing staffing needs with the unit’s operational goals, and facilitates daily staff touchbases to maintain open lines of communication, share important updates, and encourage professional development. Samantha coaches her nursing staff to ensure adherence to best practices, hospital policies, and patient care standards and, as a result, builds a strong, cohesive, and motivated team.

Samantha graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Siena College in May 2017, followed by a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New York University in January 2019. She further pursued her education with a Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education from Capella University in October 2021 and a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Administration in March 2025. 

Starting her journey in a travel contract at St. Joseph in 2022, Samantha quickly became an integral part of the Critical Care Unit, advancing to Assistant Nurse Manager in 2023. Under her leadership, the S Unit has achieved the most improved patient satisfaction survey results for St. Joseph Hospital in Quarter 4 of 2023 and again in Quarter 2 of 2024, earning the prestigious President’s Cup. Additionally, Samantha is dedicated to fostering a culture of patient safety, ensuring that her team consistently meets the highest standards. Her unit has achieved greater than 90% compliance with chlorhexidine bathing over the last year, continuing the unit’s zero harm in CLABSI and CAUTI metrics. 

Her dedication to her patients and staff is evident in her approach to leadership. “I am a nurse’s nurse,” Samantha states. “In order for my staff to take care of their patients, I need to take care of them.” By promoting open communication and accountability, she has cultivated a high-performing team that excels in delivering compassionate care. 

One of Samantha’s innovative initiatives includes the installation of a coloring mural at the unit entrance, designed to provide visual enjoyment and stress reduction for her staff. Initially intended for her team, the mural has become a beloved feature among patients and their families, enhancing their overall experience during recovery.

For those entering the healthcare field, Samantha offers invaluable advice: “The biggest disservice you can do to yourself is not to ask questions.”

During the height of Samantha’s career, she raised her first child. “Motherhood has helped me treasure the little victories so much more—and that’s what counts throughout life and throughout your career.” 

As she continues to lead the Surgical Care unit, Samantha DiBenedetto exemplifies the spirit of nursing excellence and compassionate care. Her commitment not only to her patients but also to her team sets a standard for healthcare professionals everywhere. St. Joseph Hospital is proud to have Samantha as part of its dedicated staff, ensuring that patients receive the highest level of care in a supportive environment.

Learn More about Samantha DiBenedetto:

Through her online profile, https://todaysnurse.org/nurse/4150357