Kristen cared for M for 5 months, serving as the only primary RN for a vulnerable NICU family. She worked hard to make sure that this growing baby had the right tools for optimal development. She sought out help from our developmental care team, asked the medical team to obtain consults for services to ensure M had the right kind of bottle as she learned how to coordinate suck/swallow/breathe. I can honestly say that if not for Kristen's efforts or coordination with PT/OT, this baby may have received a G-Tube.
Baby M's mom visited the NICU daily. Then she had to go back to work. And her visits became shorter. I distinctively remember one day when Kristen made sure the medical team presented rounds early enough so that mom didn't have to miss it. Kristen too made sure she was present at rounds and updated the team on her status. Every day, Kristen took time to sit with Mom to teach her something or to just listen. Kristen was a sounding board and a tremendous support for this family. Kristen didn't only focus on the baby. She often asked, "Mom, how are YOU doing?".
After caring for this baby for 5 months, Kristen ended up not being scheduled to work on the day of discharge. But fear not, Kristen changed her schedule and found a way to work so that she could discharge the baby home. Kristen had prepared the family so well, that there was no teaching to be done on the day of discharge. It was a momentous occasion, a fun day, a proud day. Kristen nearly had tears in her eyes as she wheeled back the empty crib from the lobby.
Even on Baby M's crabbiest days, Kristen found ways to help other staff. She is always willing to lend a hand and she doesn't complain when the going gets tough.
Thank you, Kristen, for so carefully and joyously taking care of Baby M. She is lucky to have had you as a primary RN!