Pediatric Intensive Care is an incredibly challenging environment to work in. Being on a unit with many high acuity patients with multiple medication, respiratory, and physical needs, it can be emotionally and physically demanding. Recently, we had a patient present with significant trauma. It was a very devastating, unexpected loss for the family, and was particularly emotionally challenging for our staff, who coded the patient for an hour. Krista was this patient's primary nurse. From the moment the patient was transferred to the floor, Krista took over, and knew exactly what to do. She coordinated with a group of more than 30 people in an attempt to save this patient's life. Her knowledge and thoroughness of what to do in a trauma situation were evident. Krista's communication skills are even more impressive, as she is able to multi-task and manage many ongoing needs at once. Krista collaborated with all of these individuals from various disciplines efficiently to promote the patient's outcome.

Above all, Krista is an incredibly kind person. She assisted with funeral planning on a reasonable timeline that the family felt most comfortable. Krista sat with the family, provided both physical comfort and emotional support, and ensured this grieving family had anything they needed to be as comfortable as possible while spending time with the deceased patient. Krista's compassion for her job and for her patients is evident. This type of trauma is not one that our hospital has seen before on the floor. At an uncertain and busy time, Krista maintained her professionalism and put her patient and family's needs first.

In addition, Krista also spends time as a CSC and as a Preceptor for new hires. Her passion for the career is admirable - she wants to help other nurses become the best healthcare professional they can be. Her dedication to her patients and their families does not go unnoticed. In this case, I truly appreciated Krista's time spent with the family, and I know the family appreciated it. Thank you, Krista! You have an immeasurable impact on the PICU!