Chris first came to Harborview as an Acute Care Travel RN on "7N" in 1995. She then went a-travellin' and came back as an ICU Travel RN in August of 2001 and eventually we 'snagged' her in the CCFP April 2002. During the period that Chris was a Travel RN on 7N we had a high number of 'non-permanent' staff. It was an ever-changing group of faces as we worked to develop a permanent staff. I mention this history to emphasize how memorable it was to work with Chris. When she returned as an ICU Travel RN in 2001, I was working in the BICU and it was a wonderful surprise to see her come around the corner. I rememberChris to be happy, helpful, flexible, a team player, organized and skilled. When she 'moved on' from 7N she was missed by the entire staff and when she returned, she lived up to her history, meeting those remembered attributes and they continue today.
Chris is one of the instigators of Off-Duty gatherings. She always promotes an 'after work' activity when staff leave. She emails the group and invites anyone willing to join the fun. She encourages a sense of unity among a staff that doesn't get to work together on a regular basis.
The peer comments she receives (and receives and receives and receives) are always positive. She is frequently recognized when we round with staff. Her peer RNs recognize her as a strong patient advocate who keeps their best interests in mind. Her caring demeanor is also recognized by the assistive staff. They see her as respectful and kind to them and her patients. Below are a few of those comments:
"Chris is a role model for all UW employees. She is kind and courteous to everyone she encounters."
"Chris is always supportive of process improvements. Chris is viewed as a leader and a great resource."
"Chris always maintains a positive attitude. She has a genuineness about her that people appreciate. She is a pleasure to work with as she is always easy going and does not become frustrated in challenging situations."
"Chris always sets a good example for others to emulate. When met with challenges she always focuses on the process and does not attempt to place blame. Chris is always very thorough with her care and assessment of patients and is thinking of the next steps in their care while anticipating problems that can occur. Great member of the Float Pool and STAT RN."
"She completes all the required care and goes beyond."
"She is always willing to take any assignment or float to any unit."
"She is a great STAT RN and charge RN, always willing to teach others."
"Chris is always helpful and flexible, I love working with her."
These comments reflect the impression she leaves on patients as well. When following her in an assignment, there is always praise and appreciation from her patients about the care she delivered and the kindness with which it was delivered. Chris is a true DAISY Nurse.