Kate makes an impact on her patients. Kate will come in at the beginning of her shift and even if only for a brief moment will stop to talk with the post op patient she took care of a few nights before in the hall during their walk just to check in. Even more often she is approached by a more long term patient of ours in the hall and interacts with them as if she cared for them merely hours before. She really takes an interest in people's lives and their stories. Kate makes each patient feel important, allowing them the time to tell her their stories. When she converses with her patients she has genuine conversations about what is going on with them and their loved ones.
I had a connection with a family a few months ago, the patient was made comfort care and the wife was anxious, nervous and scared. Although she knew what to anticipate, she was also aware that she was not ready. She knew she had to be but was looking to staff for answers and support. I took comfort in knowing that after my last shift with the patient and his family that Kate would be the care giver taking over. I had confidence in her. I felt that her calming and caring demeanor would be just what the family needed in the last hours of his life. Nursing was her calling. Kate is a genuine person and incredible nurse. I am proud to call her a co-worker and friend.