DAISY Nurse Leader, Karen stepped in to help our team on 1 West after the departure of our manager. I love how Karen thought only of helping the team and about how she could help right the ship after sudden change. Karen is an exemplary leader. Her willingness to make sure her team was in a good place was evident every day. I have worked for many managers, both here at ValleyCare and in my old life, Karen is a true leader. She has a pulse on all her people, knows what makes them tick and how to get the best out of each nurse. She motivates through feedback and leading by example. For me personally, she has helped me to grow as a nurse and to push me when I need to be pushed. She makes me want to be the best every shift and inspires through her actions. Being a leader is difficult and I always think of riding a bicycle: the back wheel is your management skills and the front wheel is your leadership, without leadership, your bike will go nowhere. Karen had the vision to lead our team and still find the time to mentor her nurses. I am truly honored to work alongside her.
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As an Interim Manager of 1 West- She worked very hard to help open 2North. I have seen her in action first hand on my first day of the job and really applaud her for her resilience and ability to deliver in preparing a unit that didn't look anywhere close to being ready and able to make it happen by working with other departments to have it done within 48hrs. In addition, made sure that the nursing team providing care in that area has an appropriate lunchroom set up. She paid attention to every little detail and kept in mind the needs of the team members who will be caring for these patients. She's a servant leader and is able to work through a difficult task with ease and dedication with a smile on her face. I am really proud that she's part of our Valley Care team.
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Karen is an inspirational leader. She is the charge nurse on 1W/day shift. She goes above and beyond the everyday. Recently before the current COVID crisis, we had our own upheaval on 1W and without hesitation, she stepped into the role of Nurse Manager. Working tirelessly 4-5 days a week for 10-12 hours she kept the unit focused and running smoothly. She maintained a positive attitude for all the staff to see and follow. Because Karen was able to do this in what felt like stormy weather, she actually prepared us all for the real storm, COVID-19. Thank you, Karen, for being there for all of us, but especially for me. You help keep me grounded, focused, and looking ahead for 1W. I am a better nurse because of you.