Judy Koestler is a very skilled clinician of with more than 39 years as a Registered Nurse (RN). She has been employed at Rapides Regional Medical Center (RRMC) for 26 years with the majority in the critical care setting. She was a nurse manager at one point but loved bedside critical care nursing more. She is a mentor for the novice nurse with her vast experience. She believes in the holistic care of patients. Judy provides complete care for her patients and follows through on her responsibilities.

Judy provides compassionate care and exemplary service. Here is an example of her love for nursing:

The MICU admitted a male patient who was from Boise, Idaho. He rapidly became critically ill requiring specialized ventilation equipment. The MICU team worked day and night to save this man's life. Many were involved in his recovery but Judy went above and beyond to help him and his family. Since he was from out of state, his family stayed mostly in the MICU waiting room. He had 2 daughters, a girlfriend, mother and brother who rotated staying at RRMC. Judy showed her true Southern hospitality to them. Her compassionate care had Judy placing herself into the mother's situation. Judy offered her home to her, to do her laundry and to get away from the hospital setting for a while. The mother was so appreciative of Judy's kindness and love. Judy said she felt like the mother was one of us, needing help.

I believe Judy's commitment to excellence for the patient and family was displayed in her actions and caring. Judy touched this family in so many ways that they still communicate with her and give updates on the patient. He was in the MICU for 7 weeks then transferred to a rehabilitation center in Idaho. He did survive, which is a miracle. Judy's nursing skills in this complex case and her compassion were part of his successful outcome. She developed a relationship with this patient and his family that will last a lifetime.