For years, bedside nurses have been frustrated by the lack of clarity around the need for heparin infusions following a coronary angiogram. This concern was escalated numerous times over the years, but no solution had yet been found. Determined to remove barriers, Emily worked with UBC nurses and technology colleagues to modify the Excellian order set with a requirement for the ordering provider to clarify the anticoagulation plan. Although she faced several roadblocks, she has been persistent in her efforts to ensure nurses have the clarity they need to provide safe and efficient care.

During the roll-out of electrolyte protocol updates in 2024, Emily served as a subject matter expert and would field many questions from leaders and frontline staff. Emily repeatedly challenged the process by escalating these questions to the implementation team and advocating for change when appropriate. Weeks later, during the roll-out of the heparin protocol update, she did the same supportive work. Emily was a huge help to our team, and we appreciate her!

In nurse governance, Emily leads the Quality meeting for the CV Community. She always makes a point to ask staff for input on current projects and ideas for future projects. She promotes collaboration within this group. She also enables others to act by sharing detailed information, such as the “why” behind protocol and policy changes. For example, when there were changes to the TR-band policy, she brought the proposed changes to the Quality UBC group and asked for questions and feedback. UBC members are considered unit leaders, so communicating these changes to this group was particularly helpful!

Emily was integral in various staff trainings, including PA catheters on H4000 and sheath pulls on H5200. During these trainings, Emily was always positive, supportive, and recognized the individual efforts of staff completing the training. She is approachable and lets staff know there is never a question too silly to ask!

Emily models the way for change. She identifies practice issues, pain points, and opportunities for improvement, and she works to find creative solutions. She is not afraid to question the ‘status quo.’ As her accomplishments compile and staff notice the impact of her work, she builds trust because they know their questions/concerns will be taken seriously. Not only does she model change, but she also inspires change! I can personally attest that Emily’s work has inspired me to ask better questions and seek out more creative solutions.