Kim Belton is an exemplary nurse leader and demonstrates so each day in the way she cares for her staff and the patients in the ICU. Her dedication to enhancing the image of nursing through the development of her staff is obvious in her leadership style and the way she communicates with patients and families. Kim accomplishes so much by creating an environment that encourages her staff to thrive professionally and personally. For example, each time a staff member graduates with a degree, passes a certification exam, or presents a poster or abstract, Kim arranges for a small celebration with cake and coffee on the unit for that team member. She ensures that each celebration is personal and meaningful for the individual. Kim is sure to highlight the professional benefits of certification and furthering education as well, and frequently sends emails to staff with hospital resources and how to best take advantage of them. She makes it a point to send frequent reminders about scholarships, grants, and other opportunities. In addition, she keeps her office door open almost all the time as a sign that staff is free to come and speak to her when needed. Kim recognizes that the ICU is a busy unit, so she makes it a priority to make rounds on the unit to further demonstrate her dedication to being available to staff. At any given time, you may find her answering a call light, helping turn a patient, or assisting family members with navigating the hospital.

Kim became the manager of the ICU after some brutal months of the COVID pandemic. The general staff morale was extremely low, and many nurses were considering leaving the bedside altogether because of extreme stress and trauma. In a matter of weeks, Kim began to turn morale around. She was able to recognize what the staff needed, and if she could not provide it, she was sure to circle back, follow up, and ensure team members that their voices were heard. She adjusted some major staff dissatisfiers like PTO guidelines, the day shift waiting list, and staffing numbers. Kim recognized the need for work/life balance after the lines were blurred during the pandemic and made it a priority to improve it. She was, and is, always transparent with her goals for the unit and how she plans to achieve them. Her dedication to her staff is evident through her decisions, which creates an environment that empowers her team to provide compassionate, safe, high-quality, and ethical care. I cannot imagine a nurse leader more worthy of the DAISY recognition.