Kaitlin has only been an RN for 2 years, but within that time, she has excelled and provides exceptional care to all patients. Kaitlin has truly developed her clinical and critical thinking skills to notice subtle differences in patients' conditions. She also consistently has a questioning attitude, which prompts her to immediately follow up on concerns. Kaitlin demonstrated these characteristics as she escalated care for a patient whose condition worsened throughout the night. Because of her strong attention to detail, she monitored the patient closely and was able to find slight clinical changes, such as trace extremity swelling, slight decreased capillary refill, and a new rash. Kaitlin continually notified the physicians throughout the shift with each difference so they could assess the patient together. Although it was the end of her shift, she continued to monitor the patient's vital signs, which triggered a positive sepsis screen. Kaitlin immediately contacted the physicians again and called a rapid response. She stayed with her patient and was quick to complete the necessary interventions. The patient's care was escalated as he needed to be transferred to PICU. She was very knowledgeable of the patient, and her effective communication and collaboration with members of all disciplines enhanced everyone's knowledge and awareness of the patient.
Not only did Kaitlin provide excellent, holistic care for the patient, but she also ensured the patient's mom was updated and cared for during her stay. On Kaitlin's next shift, she brought the mom her favorite drink, which is not available in the hospital. Also, the mom would often try to find time in between her visits to buy a new toy car to cheer up the patient. Kaitlin also brought the patient a new car to enhance the patient's spirits and assist the mom.
A family wrote: My son was hospitalized on both the NICU-OL and 2 Hope for kidney surgery. An expected one-night stay turned into five. Throughout our stay on 2 Hope Kaitlin was caring, warm-hearted, quiet, respectful, compassionate, and had a great bedside manner. She was always helpful and knew her job well. We even received a card from Kaitlin following our stay.
These are just two examples of how Kaitlin deeply cares for her patients and strives for the best possible outcomes.
A coworker described her as "amazing and brilliant." Describing a different patient than above, her coworker said Kaitlin's "great assessment skills and knowledge allowed her to communicate effectively with residents and peers and transfer her patient quickly for emergency surgery. Kaitlin stayed after her shift to take the patient to OR and gave report to PICU. She is an asset to 2 Hope.
Kaitlin is truly an Extraordinary Nurse - thanks for going above and beyond."