Kristi is an incredible nurse, a born leader, and a compassionate human. She cares deeply, not only for the patients and families we serve but also for our staff. She frequently goes above and beyond to support the most vulnerable patients, which is evidenced by her studies in bioethics, work to embed bioethics within nursing, and providing support through moral distress forums. In addition, she is always quick to help. She excels at collaboration and listening to the input of her team and the front line. If something comes up that requires a bit more resource, she will jump right in, come alongside her direct reports, and support as needed.
She also takes initiative on various major projects which help to achieve hospital goals. Most recently, she was a clinical lead for the CLABSI work and took the lead on all things PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) when COVID-19 started. It is said that the work of a CNS (Clinical Nurse Specialist) is to identify and fix needs at the nurse, patient, and system levels. Kristi exemplified this during the COVID-19 pandemic. In the moments of rapid change and unknowns, her leadership and dedication to exceptional care helped to maintain patient and staff safety, as well as the mission and vision of Seattle Children's. Each hour, each day, and each week, Kristi maintained coordination with many areas of the hospital to ensure standard care and supply availability. While each area in the hospital is unique, Kristi was able to navigate those differences to ensure safe and equitable care.
Whether Kristi knows it or not, she has mentored many of us to be steady and consistent in our messaging and that patient care must not suffer, especially in times of crisis. Kristi is a strong advocate for those she is tasked to manage, supervise, direct, lead, and guide. Kristi has always been a strong support for advanced practice nursing and the Clinical Nurse Specialist team. She is a fabulous advocate for nurses and nursing practice. She continues to reinforce the value that Clinical Nurse Specialists bring to improve patient care, outcomes, and safety at the patient, nurse, and system levels. She is always available for the CNS team. She has great follow-through and encourages innovative thinking. While working in collaboration with Kristi, the CNS team simultaneously learns from her example.
Kristi's leadership both leads and mentors us to be exceptional nurses. Kristi deserves this recognition and to be commended for all she does to support nurses and patients. Her creativity and humor help us get through the best of times and the most challenging of times. We are grateful to have her as our Director. Thank you, Kristi! You are an amazing nurse!
Note: This is Kristi's 2nd DAISY Award!