I was admitted for abdominal surgery and have had numerous surgeries - the prospect of another was distressing. Every nurse seemed to understand my condition and my medical history and did their very best to deal with my multiple problems.
Karen not only managed the floor but was there with the doctors making rounds. I saw three doctors that were vaguely familiar with my case, but Karen was there every time to provide information. When the time came to pull my NG tube, it was Karen. When my IV needed to be moved, it was Karen supervising the new nurse. It was always Karen who was always around and who provided me the constancy, the visual and vocal assurance that I was going to be okay. As I walked the hallways, I noticed she was even helping deliver the meals so that every patient was taken care of as quickly and efficiently as possible. That seems to have been the theme under her direction: efficient and compassionate care. When it comes from the whole staff, the leader of the team deserves recognition.
I have been a manager of professional staff most of my life and understand how difficult it is. To manage that and to be at hand when needed like a guardian angel looking over everything all at once takes a very special and dedicated person. Karen is a nurse of the highest order.