When you think of extraordinary, especially in terms of nursing, there is one person who goes above and beyond everything and is always compelled to do the most for the greatest good. This kind of person leads with their heart, and what follows is unparalleled compassion.
Chris is the ultimate mother bear. She arrives to work, and the first thing she does is check in with the staff - caring deeply about the feeling of the "family" on the unit. Chris has shown this through her work of precepting the last two groups of our ED new grads. She protects the new grads, teaches them with fierce kindness and respect, and is a strong refuge of sorts. She sits with them, answers their questions, and provides open-ended questions that get them to engage their critical thinking skills. Chris offers to pick up extra shifts to make sure that the new grads have the time on the floor to learn and is accommodating by being flexible with her schedule saying, "Put me where you need me."
When it comes to her patients, Chris is honest, fair, and extremely respectful. She works well with our behavioral patients in terms of setting appropriate limits, using great techniques of redirection, having focused conversations, and allowing for patient choice. From minor laceration to "septic sick," Chris makes sure to keep all her patients feeling comfortable and relaxed with an in-charge attitude so they know someone has their back and is looking out for their health and wellness. We are incredibly lucky that Chris found us and has made us her ED family.