February 2021
Kristi
Schwartz
,
RN
Emergency Department
Monument Health Rapid City Hospital

 

 

 

Kris is the kind of nurse that we should all aspire to be.
As a nurse myself, there runs a fine line of being unsure with your own family when it comes to healthcare.... maybe sometimes we wait too long. I also know that it's easy to second guess yourself when you have a little medical knowledge. I recently had life-changing events and have spent a good two months in several hospitals with our daughter. I first called and talked to Kris, she was so understanding and warming and knowledgeable. After talking with her, my fears were erased, and when we arrived her kind smile greeted us.
Being in the hospital is never easy but her skills soon put me to ease, as I soon knew we were under good nursing care. From the check-in, her assessment, her IV skills, her constant monitoring or even checking with pharmacy to make sure new meds did not interfere with other meds, she had the experience that allowed me to breathe and not stand at the bedside like a fire-breathing dragon. She is a stunning example of this profession's values.
I am also honored to call her my coworker. She is the strength of the ED and a lot of young nurses and staff rely on her; she exhibits this daily in her work setting. Kris is the kind of nurse that we should all aspire to be. I am truly honored to be under her wing. The ED family loves and values you. You are our DAISY!!!!!