Kathleen Fitzgerald, BSN, PCCN, Nurse Coach, Holistic Nurse

Kathy did a phenomenal job attending to the numerous requests from her patient, my mother’s companion of 18 years. He is in day 5 of his stay resulting from a PIC line infection. He entered/was admitted from the ER, then to the CICU for 3 days, and now an inpatient room. Both he and my mother have hearing aids and frequently ask all staff to face them and speak loudly and are rather impatient with surrounding background noise. Kathy did an excellent job of managing this with patience, increased speaking volume, and, lastly, confirming she was facing them when speaking, and that they were engaged to listen. Kathy fulfilled every request made of her and was clear when these requests would need approval or execution by other personnel. She also followed through on those requests. In particular, Kathy made certain they were able to consult with the dietitian regarding times of conflicting heart health or kidney diets. Kathy also addressed every request for “comfort adjustment” with pillows, blankets, and leg adjustments throughout the six hours that my mother visited, and I remained on the hospital grounds. Kathy was clear and responsive in explaining workflow, timing, and planned activities and what might be anticipated throughout the day. Kathy is clearly committed to excellent patient care!