Nicholas Hays, RN

Nicholas is an inspiring preceptor who has completely transformed my growth and education as a new graduate nurse. Navigating orientation can be incredibly scary, but Nicholas immediately became someone I truly look up to, believe in, and aspire to be like. Because of his guidance, I am coming off orientation feeling so much more confident as a nurse on our unit.

What truly sets Nicholas apart is the profound patience and genuine investment he has in his students. He doesn't just teach; he completely steps back to figure out how his orientee learns best.

I will never forget when I got stuck and was struggling to understand the Impella. Instead of getting frustrated or giving up on me, he met me exactly where I was with so much grace. He grabbed a cardiac surgery pillow and used it to visually break down the pathophysiology of where an Impella pump sits, showing me exactly how it affects our patients' cardiac issues. In that moment, he turned my anxiety into complete understanding and confidence.

Norton Healthcare frequently asks its employees, "What is your why?" Although I am considered the baby nurse on our unit, my 'why' is Nicholas.

Thank you, Nicholas!