Kelly Patrylak, SCN 1 , RN

Kelly Patrylak exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate nurse and leader. As one of our Emergency Department Senior Clinical Nurses and our Stress First Aid (SFA) Champion, she demonstrated extraordinary awareness, empathy, and courage when she recognized that one of our nurses was in crisis.

Using the SFA model, Kelly immediately recognized that her colleague was firmly in the "red" zone and needed support. This nurse was just about to start her shift when Kelly encountered her. Rather than assuming someone else would step in, Kelly took action. She approached her coworker with compassion and without judgment, creating a safe space for her to share what she was experiencing. Kelly listened attentively, assessed the situation, and ensured her colleague was not facing it alone.

Recognizing that the nurse was not in a position to safely care for herself, Kelly helped develop a plan to ensure she got home safely, was not alone, was reassured that she had a support system, and was connected with appropriate resources for ongoing support. She remained present throughout the process, demonstrating genuine concern for her coworker's well-being and dignity.

Kelly's actions embody the very best of nursing. She not only cared for her patients that day in the busy Emergency Department, but she also cared for one of our own. Her ability to recognize emotional distress, apply evidence-based Stress First Aid principles, and intervene with compassion may have made a profound difference in the life of a fellow nurse. Nursing is about caring for people in their most vulnerable moments, and Kelly reminded us that our colleagues deserve that same level of care. She leads by example, fostering a culture where it is safe to ask for help, where no one has to struggle alone, and where kindness and human connection are just as important as clinical expertise.