Kristine is one of the best ICU nurses I have worked with, she constantly demonstrates the highest level of kindness, empathy, professionalism, and competency. Every time I walk into the unit, I learn that she is caring for one of my patients, and I instantly feel a sense of comfort. She is not only beloved by the MICU physicians but patients too. She helps us in providing the highest quality care for our patients, but I have now seen multiple examples during my time in the ICU where the patients have been so impressed by her care and sung her praise to me when I talk to them on my own. In particular, she recently helped me take care of a sick elderly woman who was admitted in critical condition. The patient was ultimately extubated, weaned off pressor, and was able to converse with staff. Kristine was assigned to be her nurse over multiple days of her ICU stay. Even one day when I walked into the patient’s room to evaluate her, she spoke so highly of Kristine, pointing to Kristine outside of the room and expressing her sincere gratitude for the excellent care Kristine was providing on a daily basis. The patient’s son was equally impressed by her care and mentioned to me on the patient’s day of discharge, how impressed he was by the care Kristine provided to his mother while in the ICU. The patient’s outcome was the best I could have asked for as a physician and I credit her improvement and successful outcome and return home to Kristine.

***

Kristine is an outstanding patient advocate characterized by her clinical expertise and devotion to her patients and families. She is truly an example of a caring nurse, always attentive to her patients and making sure they have everything they need to feel safe and cared for. She has a special way of communicating with her patients and families, building trust that allows them to know they are in good hands. I have personally seen Kristine connect with her patients, whether she is sitting down at the bedside holding their hands and talking to them to show how much she cares, spending extra time with patients and families to explain a procedure that they may not fully understand or sharing stories that will ease their anxiety. Her genuine kindness and empathy are truly admirable.

Note: This is Kristine's 2nd DAISY Award!