Kenyel Smith-Harris, RN

One evening, the acuity on the 2G Inpatient Mental Health Unit had significantly increased, creating a highly demanding and fast-paced environment. The day shift census was 12, including five patients on 1013/1014 involuntary status, as well as one patient requiring direct line-of-sight observation for safety due to suicidal ideation.

Despite the intensity of the workload and competing priorities, Ms. Kenyel remained calm, composed, and fully present as the charge nurse for both patients and staff.

During this time, Ms. Kenyel demonstrated exceptional therapeutic communication skills. At one point, she was simultaneously approached by three patients, each urgently demanding her attention. Rather than appearing overwhelmed, she maintained patience, actively listened, and addressed each patient's needs with empathy and professionalism. Her ability to prioritize while ensuring that each patient felt heard and valued contributed to a sense of stability on the unit.

One particularly meaningful example of her compassion involved a patient who had been transported from out of town on a 1013 status. This patient was experiencing heightened anxiety not only due to his hospitalization but also because his car had been towed and his dog had been placed in an animal shelter. Recognizing the emotional significance of this situation, Ms. Kenyel took the initiative to provide the patient with the contact information for the animal shelter. This small but impactful action helped alleviate the patient's distress and allowed him to feel a sense of control during a vulnerable time.

In addition, Ms. Kenyel demonstrated strong advocacy for this patient. When transportation services initially denied the request to return the patient to the originating location, she persistently followed up and communicated on the patient's behalf to ensure continuity of care and an appropriate disposition. Her efforts ultimately supported the patient's transition and reinforced trust in the care team.

Ms. Kenyel consistently exemplified the VA's ICARE values. She demonstrated **Integrity** through her honest and transparent communication, **Commitment** by remaining dedicated to patient-centered care despite the high acuity, and **Advocacy** by actively working to meet the patient's needs beyond basic clinical care. She showed **Respect** by treating each patient with dignity, listening attentively, and validating their concerns. Finally, she embodied **Excellence** through her ability to deliver high-quality care under pressure while maintaining a therapeutic and supportive environment.

Ms. Kenyel made a meaningful difference in the life of this patient by addressing not only his clinical needs but also the personal stressors contributing to his anxiety. Her actions helped the patient feel seen, supported, and valued as an individual, ultimately enhancing his overall experience of care.

Additionally, Ms. Kenyel served as a role model for me and other staff by demonstrating the importance of empathy, effective communication, and patient advocacy in mental health nursing. Her approach reinforced the value of treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and highlighted how even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.

Kudos to you, Ms. Kenyel!