Yolanda, known as Kitty, has worked in APS for 9 years as an RN. Before coming to APS Kitty worked in Inpatient Psychiatry, originally as a Mental Health Worker and then as a Nurse. Kitty consistently strives for excellence in providing the best care to her patients. APS can sometimes be a challenging place to work due to the complex patient population. Many of the APS patients are well known to the staff and more often than not know Kitty. They respond well to her; and are often able to demonstrate safe behaviors or accept medications with her teaching, explanation and encouragement. The patients respect her and are able to communicate with her in a productive manner.
She has a way of connecting with some of our most acutely ill patients- it is truly exceptional. She puts her heart into every task; EPIC documentation, orientating new staff and offering ideas for improvement. She is the chairperson of the APS Excellence Council. When she works as the charge nurse she communicates effectively with the Emergency Department charge nurses and the inpatient psych triage nurse, ensuring that our patients consistently receive the very best care.
Whether she is assessing a patient that was brought emergently to our receiving door with the police/EMS or the person that walks into our lobby, Kitty listens, assesses and moves the patient along to the best area for care. Her role as a nurse in APS is more than just job - she lives the Hennepin values. She has a true commitment to our patients and to HCMC. She is truly one of a kind.