Kristin has been an RN since 1987 and worn many hats since that time. She has worked in med-surg, outpatient care, and PACU. Kris has the patience of a saint and has the ability to remain calm, cool, and collected when weathering a storm of chaos at any given moment. She always has her patient’s best interests in mind and is a true patient advocate. She will always go the extra mile to be sure proper and safe care is at the forefront for her patient’s sake. She is a team player no matter how busy her assignment may be. You can always depend on her to lend a hand or words of advice when needed.
She makes an enormous difference in the lives of people every day, but especially with one patient. I believe Kris made ALL the difference because of her skill, compassionate care and calm, professional style. The situation could have been volatile and I was awestruck by Kris’ approach in the face of human tragedy. Her patient was originally admitted for a lung biopsy but because the wife told the doctor he had slurring, a CT brain was also done. This report was devastating showing a “massive brain tumor with bleeding and a shift.” The doctor wanted immediate treatment but the patient refused any further care and climbed out of bed taking his clothes off and IV out stating, “let’s go home!” He refused a CXR to follow up post biopsy. His wife was emotionally overwhelmed, alone as she never imagined this turn of events. All of the plans of care changed with the attending MD. Two PAs were on the unit, and Hospice care was arranged. DNR with MOLST forms completed with the distraught wife, immediate family were called by the PAs, and throughout the entire ordeal, Kristin kept the patient safe and calm as he wandered the halls of the unit agitated and yelling to his wife to “hurry up!”
I witnessed Kris Rapasadi handling the situation with grace, compassion and dignity. She is an asset to our family here at St. Joseph’s!