Kathleen is the ANM for the ICU at Bartow. As a traveler, it is very overwhelming to work in a unit with no core staff. Kathleen is always positive and goes above and beyond and sacrifices time at home for the good of the patients and nurses in the ICU. She continually “leads the ship” when it feels like there is no other support. From Passing meds to meetings, BayCare is blessed to have her. There have been several occasions where Kathleen will be ANM by day and ICU will be short at night so she will have to come in at night to staff.

There was a particular patient who was TTM and she had to staff. She did such a great job providing loving, supportive care to the patient and family that the family would frequently ask to see Kathleen so they could thank her for her care. This is not uncommon. Kathleen continually shows leadership and creates order in this very chaotic ICU.

When Kathleen is not present there is no support – she truly keeps the ship going. Not to mention Kathleen is ANM, staff, and the unappointed manager of the ICU. There is not a hat this woman does not wear. There are not enough ways to sing the woman’s praises. As a travel nurse, I work with a lot of hospital systems, and I can see that Kathleen carries the weight of the ICU. Without her, BayCare would be at a loss. I have truly never met a nurse leader who pours her heart and soul into her position or is more deserving of recognition for her dedication. For Kathleen, this is not a job but a calling.

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Kathleen has been there since the beginning of my hire. She answers my emails/texts in a very timely manner. She comes around the floor often checking if any of us need anything she can help with. The ICU would not run as smoothly as it is now without Kathleen’s help and support. 

Note: This is Kathleen's 3rd DAISY Award!