April 2026 Honoree
Sarah Nettesheim, BSN, RN
Sarah is the definition of an exceptional nurse. She takes the time to truly understand what families are experiencing during their NICU journey and brings her own life experiences to the bedside to provide comfort during some of the most difficult days of their lives.
I will never forget one shift we worked together when Sarah sat with parents after they had received unfavorable news from the provider. Our patient's mother was emotional and overwhelmed with guilt. Sarah had a heartfelt conversation with her, offering the compassion and reassurance she so desperately needed. She patiently answered every question about the "what ifs" and helped ease the mother's fears. It was incredible to witness how healing that conversation was. Because of Sarah's support, the mother was finally able to step away from the bedside to care for herself, knowing we would be there to care for her baby.
As a preceptor, Sarah not only created a safe and supportive learning environment, but also challenged me to become a better nurse. Whenever I struggled to understand a concept, she took the time to look up resources with me, answer my questions, and ensure I truly understood. She went above and beyond throughout my orientation to provide meaningful learning experiences that prepared me to deliver the highest quality care. Sarah also walked me through complex clinical scenarios, helping me develop the knowledge and confidence needed to safely care for the most critically ill babies in the NICU.
Sarah has a remarkable ability to light up every patient room she enters. Her compassion, clinical expertise, and dedication to both patients and colleagues make a lasting impact on everyone she meets. She is truly one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege of working with, and our patients, families, and staff are incredibly fortunate to have her at Children's Wisconsin.
I will never forget one shift we worked together when Sarah sat with parents after they had received unfavorable news from the provider. Our patient's mother was emotional and overwhelmed with guilt. Sarah had a heartfelt conversation with her, offering the compassion and reassurance she so desperately needed. She patiently answered every question about the "what ifs" and helped ease the mother's fears. It was incredible to witness how healing that conversation was. Because of Sarah's support, the mother was finally able to step away from the bedside to care for herself, knowing we would be there to care for her baby.
As a preceptor, Sarah not only created a safe and supportive learning environment, but also challenged me to become a better nurse. Whenever I struggled to understand a concept, she took the time to look up resources with me, answer my questions, and ensure I truly understood. She went above and beyond throughout my orientation to provide meaningful learning experiences that prepared me to deliver the highest quality care. Sarah also walked me through complex clinical scenarios, helping me develop the knowledge and confidence needed to safely care for the most critically ill babies in the NICU.
Sarah has a remarkable ability to light up every patient room she enters. Her compassion, clinical expertise, and dedication to both patients and colleagues make a lasting impact on everyone she meets. She is truly one of the most extraordinary people I have ever had the privilege of working with, and our patients, families, and staff are incredibly fortunate to have her at Children's Wisconsin.
Thank you, Sarah, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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