A patient came from the clinic needing an unplanned cesarean section. The patient had no support with her as she had just come from the clinic, and her support person wasn't able to come right away. This was all after hours, and I was feeling pressure from the OR to get the patient down to surgery quickly. The surgery needed to happen sooner rather than later, however was not an OB emergency by any means. Kara really advocated for the patient and put herself in the patient's shoes, scared and alone on a very important day and experience in this patient's life, the birth of her baby! Her slowing down and seeing the bigger picture, that this was indeed not an emergency situation made the patient feel at ease and reminded me to see the bigger picture as well. How she advocated waiting for the patient's support person to come made a huge difference and left an impact on not just the patient, but for me as well.
When Kara works lactation, she collaborates with floor nurses and providers regarding infant feedings and feeding plans. She communicates well with not only other nurses on the floor but with providers and patients as well. The scenario explained above is a prime example of respect for our patients and their experiences here, that will stick with that patient for the rest of her life. Kara also gathers statistics on breastfeeding to see if we are following the national guidelines. She teaches NRP as well, she is a great resource for everyone.
Kara provides quality care to patients, she has a relaxed personality that allows co-workers and patients to feel comfortable around her to ask questions, and collaborate. She treats each person she meets with respect. Shifts when she is the lactation nurse are always a treat, you know the moms are being heard, helped, and educated in regards to breastfeeding, and you know the babies are being fed. You can always count on her for help. When she finished her lactation work, she willfully and stewardly volunteered to reduce and go home if not needed. I think about the situation with the C-section often, and how amazing it was how she advocated and didn't let pressure from other units to "hurry up" get to her, how she analyzed the situation and saw the importance of the patient having her support person present for her (once again, obviously because it WASN'T an emergency).
From lactation shifts to caring for patients she always makes sure patients have what they need, feel cared for, and comfortable. She is open and accepting of questions if I have any and answers them with grace, she is a great co-worker and teammate. Essentia is lucky to have such a gem.