Caroline provides excellent and compassionate care. The following example shows how she models the I-CARE characteristics in her patient care. Recently in SICU, Caroline had a patient who had a very painful surgery, and was having difficulty communicating. The patient was experiencing a huge amount of anxiety related to this. Caroline went home and researched options that would help benefit the patient. She found a communication app for the iPad. The next day when Caroline came in, she shared the app with the patient who then used it to help with communication. It was obviously meaningful for the patient that Caroline went above and beyond to research options, and shared them with the patient the next day.
The nurse practitioner in the ICU noted that "Caroline had the woman out of bed, listening to music and dancing with therapy in the hall. Remarkable, to say the least. She took the time to pay attention to her and personalize her care in such a way not everyone is capable of. She made a huge difference in this patient's day, and hopefully her stay. It was amazing to see the transformation in the patient's mood when Caroline came on scene!" Caroline was able to make a special bond with this patient by earning her trust and confidence, which shows care of the highest integrity.
At baseline, the patient struggles with depression and has a very difficult road ahead of her. Caroline made extra effort to focus on serving the veteran by acknowledging her unique needs. She provided dignified and respectful care. She honored the VA mission by keeping her daily work as a nurse truly patient centered. Caroline brings a depth of perspective to her nursing practice from her time as a civilian nurse at Landstuhl, where she cared for many active duty troops fresh off of the front lines in Iraq and Afghanistan. Caroline also worked as a travel RN for several years before returning to the VA. The main reason she chose to return to the VA is that she loves the patient population, and it shows in her care.