Julie founded the RMC Vascular Access Department 4 years ago.  Prior to that she functioned as an IR nurse who also placed PICC, midlines, and peripheral IVs after her cases or shifts were completed.  She acted in this lone capacity for nearly 20 years.  Fast forward to Feb. 2024 when I started working with her.  Time after time I am in awe of her professionalism, compassion, and equity that she delivers to every patient.  Julie’s passion for her job goes beyond the typical role of providing IV access in a safe and comfortable manner.
    
As a vascular access nurse, Julie is only in a patient’s life for what seems like a blink of an eye, but she has a long positive impact.  The way she treats each patient, and the way she educates, reassures, and carries out what is normally a painful procedure, is handled in a way that leaves her patients smiling and thanking her as she leaves each room.
    
Recently, our team was consulted late in the day for PICC placement.  The patient was extremely anxious and fearful of the procedure.  Julie was able to sit with this patient and provide accurate and clear responses to all the questions and concerns.  The patient agreed to the procedure, and Julie placed it. The patient described it as painless.  Julie deserves recognition as the situation was not one that would have been easy to navigate without the base knowledge and expertise Julie possesses.