Jennifer Brown, R.N., and Kristina Partika, have joined The House of the Good Shepherd retirement community’s executive team, filling two key posts. 

Brown is the new Staff Development & Infection Control Nurse and Partika is now the Director of Admissions.

“Two very outstanding individuals with terrific credentials,” said Sue Lanza, CEO of The House. “They both bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to The House. They are great additions to our team.”As the Infection Control Nurse, Brown will focus on infection prevention and assisting staff in managing personal protective equipment and proper techniques.

“Preventing infections is always part of the work of nursing,” said Brown, an R.N. since 2011. “We easily become afraid of what we do not understand. Learning more helps you make informed decisions and reduces the anxiety of the situation.”

In addition to infection control, Brown oversees staff development and education, something that she has always enjoyed. 

“I enjoy teaching,” she said. “I feel like The House is a very good match for me. It’s so important to make sure staff is up to date on skills and that we meet ongoing education requirements. The best part for me is when I get to see things ‘click’ with others as they learn something new. With teaching, it is never the same. There is always something else to learn and different people learning, so it’s always new. 

“At the same time,” continued Brown, “continuity of care is essential. That means the care we give is consistently high quality and based on the needs of those receiving it. Everyone is ‘somebody’s somebody.’ We can be very task-focused in medical care but we also need to remember that we are working with people who deserve our respect and care as a person.”

As the Director of Admissions, Partika assists families and residents with all aspects of the admissions process, which can be very tough for many people.

“I really enjoy speaking with individuals and families to help them make decisions about what is right for them,” said Partika. “For many people, it can be an emotional decision involving lots of details that can be overwhelming including finances and medical needs, especially during these challenging times due to COVID. Helping people sort through all those things and helping to make the best decision for them is very satisfying.”

Partika notes that she has been involved in “the business” for many years, starting as an aide in long-term care and progessing from there. 

“Most of my career has been helping people in long-term care, starting out as an aide, then serving as a director of activities, and most recently as a director of admissions in another long-term facility south of here,” Partika said. “I felt like this was a good opportunity for me. I live in the Hackettstown area and I know the quality reputation of The House. I’m excited to be part of the team here. It has a very friendly feel. The staff knows each other and everyone works together to meet the needs of our residents.”

The House is located at 798 Willow Grove Street and offers an array of living options for seniors, from independent and assisted living to skilled nursing care. They also offer short term post-hospital stays, all in a beautiful setting along the banks of the Musconetcong River. For more about
The House, visit www.hotgs.org.