TidalHealth Nanticoke honors the following four team members as 3rd Quarter 2025 Team Members of the Quarter:
Administrative & Support Services: Jason Ellis, Facilities Management
Jason Ellis is a maintenance mechanic in TidalHealth Nanticoke’s Facilities Department.
Ellis is always ready to help, approaching every task with a smile and a “what can I do?” attitude. His positivity is contagious, and he consistently goes above and beyond — whether installing door locks, cutting keys, setting up tents on weekends, or driving to support events. Since moving from Environmental Services to Facilities, he has grown into a professional, dependable team member who takes pride in finding the best solutions to challenges.
Ellis also manages critical behind-the-scenes responsibilities, including maintaining Joint Commission documentation, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal requirements, and overseeing food service hood inspections and heating system maintenance. His combination of hands-on skills, attention to detail, and dedication makes him an invaluable member of the team and a true asset to the organization.
Professional Services: Sarah Hastings, Physical Therapy
Sarah Hastings is a certified occupational therapy assistant in TidalHealth Nanticoke’s Physical Therapy Department.
Hastings consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication to patient care, often making herself available outside regular hours and volunteering during snow closures to ensure continuity of care. She has mastered post-operative rotator cuff therapy and, as a skilled lymphedema specialist, has achieved remarkable outcomes for patients with fluid buildup in multiple areas. Her expertise has earned her a strong reputation, attracting referrals from communities across Maryland and Delaware.
Hastings is also a passionate advocate and educator, providing patients with equipment, maintenance materials, and individualized home exercise programs. She keeps the occupational-lymphedema clinic fully stocked, mentors occupational therapy students, and maintains relationships with vendors to support patient care. Her commitment to high-quality treatment and professional development makes her an invaluable part of the department.
Nursing Services: Melissa Bitler, Emergency Department
Melissa “Mel” Bitler, RN, of the Emergency Department (ED) is one of TidalHealth Nanticoke’s 3rd Quarter 2025 Team Members of the Quarter for Nursing Services.
Bitler is an integral member of the ED team. She is an exceptional staff nurse who cares for her patients with consistent kindness and compassion. As a preceptor, she has trained many new team members and remains a reliable resource for them as they grow in their roles. She also serves as a relief charge nurse, bringing the same calm, steady demeanor to the position. In that role, she keeps the department organized and running efficiently.
Many of Bitler’s contributions happen quietly and without recognition, yet she shows up every day giving 100% in her steady, humble way. She is deeply appreciated for all she does.
Nursing Services: Barbara Fulkrod, Emergency Department
Barbara Fulkrod of the Emergency Department (ED) is one of TidalHealth Nanticoke’s 3rd Quarter 2025 Team Members of the Quarter for Nursing Services.
The ED team knows Fulkrod is the go-to person for finding anything in the department. She manages supplies, checks par levels, communicates needs, and keeps the unit running smoothly. She often steps in to support unit secretary duties and even covers lunches for secretaries while handling her regular responsibilities. Her organization and attention to detail make everyone’s job easier and ensure the right supplies are available when needed.
Fulkrod’s dedication has had a direct impact on patient care, including helping improve blood culture contamination rates with her blood culture kits. Team members trust her to solve problems and get tasks to the right person quickly, providing a sense of relief and reliability across the unit. Her commitment and drive make her an essential part of the ED, and she deserves recognition for all she does.
