I have known Ellen for many years. We haven't always worked the same shifts, but when I came to the day shift a couple of years ago, she made me feel so comfortable and at home. She goes out of her way to make new people feel welcome and tries to get to know everyone she works with on a personal level. She genuinely cares about her coworkers, her patients, and the families.
Recently, I had a patient in the Emergency Department that had neck pain and was found to have a mass. The diagnosis was most likely cancer. I had not been able to take my lunch break yet, and Ellen could tell immediately that I was struggling and talked me through it and sent me to lunch. She jumped in and took over care of the patient while the Provider was giving the parent the news. I greatly appreciated her kindness and her willingness to jump in and help me.
Ellen is our Magnet Ambassador for our department and has worked so hard to educate staff about Magnet. She created several display cases to educate families and staff about Magnet. Ellen displays a nurturing, empathetic attitude with her patients and coworkers. She has years of experience as a pediatric nurse, and she is confident and makes quick decisions in critical situations. She does a good job of trying to make all co-workers feel important and appreciated. Now it's our turn to show how much we appreciate her!
***
Ellen has been a nurse leader in our Kansas Emergency Department since 2006. As a critical care nurse, she exemplifies confidence and competence at the bedside and in the many roles we are asked to perform in the ED.
One example of her excellent care is in the role of a member of the Code team and EARS response team. Ellen was the primary responder for an EARS response in a clinic for a seizing parent the other day. Ellen directed her care at the scene and immediately coordinated the transfer of this mom to the Emergency Department. Ellen calmly redirected staff and security to safely care for this mom and family and remained with her as she stabilized and recovered from her seizure.
Ellen gave great comfort to this mom and her family as she was very confused and frightened. We all followed her lead to give the mom what she needed to understand what was happening. Ellen coordinated with social work and family to assist in transferring to an adult ED. Ellen goes above and beyond for patients and staff. She has recently worked tirelessly as our Magnet Ambassador and prepared our department for our Magnet redesignation. Ellen is a resource for her peers in many including managing benefits as well as patient care! She truly cares about her team members and is an asset to our department.