Ally Fredrickson is truly the definition of the nurse that goes above and beyond. She consistently has shown her integrity, passion, and joy here in the CTICU with a diverse array of families. Her compassionate nature shines through during times of fun and craziness and times of deep sadness and grief.
Ally is so intuitive and knows how to meet the room's emotion where it is at. When she needs her 3-year-old post-op patient to walk for the first time, she is the cheerleader. If a mom is weeping due to a new diagnosis, she is the listening ear and shoulder to cry on. I have never heard Ally complain about an assignment. She is here at work truly to care for her patients the best way she knows how.
One example of going above and beyond was when Ally was working so hard to get a family discharged and she spent extra time with the mother going over all her concerns. The mother was still recovering from surgery, so Ally pushed the mother in a wheelchair over the pharmacy to pick up the meds.
Ally recently has been the nurse to two of our patients on their last days of life. One nurse said, "Ally was so poised and peaceful as she cared for these families on their most difficult of days."
Another nurse in regard to these patients said, "Ally knows how to care for herself and refuel so that she can come back to work the next day and give the next patient her full self." Through her innate awareness of others needs, Ally can care for any patient regardless of cultural, religion or economic background.
Another nurse said, "Ally is able to articulate and advocate for her patient's needs and communicate effectively with all members of the CHLA Team." Through her willingness to always have students, precept new nurses and give care to any aged child, Ally truly is a wonderful nurse and deserving of this award!