Kirstin is an incredible nurse and educator. She is a tremendous support to the Ortho team through her role as a charge nurse, but she is a real standout in her role as their unit educator. This year, she worked so hard to help the Ortho team achieve their Joint Certification and worked with her team to become the Home for Brunch champion multiple times. She is always willing to jump in to help on projects with other Unit-Based Educators, and she has also worked so hard to develop a PCT training program called "Pathway to Ownership" (P2O), which trains and supports new PCTs joining the PAR family. Kirstin demonstrates kindness and compassion with her patients and coworkers. She is a natural teacher who shares her knowledge freely and generously. I feel so thankful to be able to work alongside Kirstin because she is such a delight, and I have learned so much from her in the years we have worked together. Kirstin would be a wonderful recipient of the UBE DAISY Award because she truly embodies the spirit and essence of this award. 

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I am honored to nominate Kirstin for the DAISY Nurse Educator Award. Kirstin has consistently demonstrated a passion for education, professional development, and clinical excellence, making her more than deserving of this award.

As a dedicated nurse, Kirstin has not only excelled in patient care but has also played a crucial role in mentoring and training staff members. Her ability to provide hands-on guidance and foster a culture of continuous learning has significantly enhanced our service line’s competency and morale.

Some of the outstanding qualities that make Kirstin an excellent choice for this award include:
• Clinical Expertise: She has extensive knowledge in the Med Surg realm, specifically ortho, ensuring that teams remain up to date with best practices.
• Effective Teaching Skills: Kirstin has a natural ability to explain procedures and protocols in an engaging and clear manner, benefiting both new and experienced nurses.
• Commitment to Professional Development: She actively seeks opportunities for growth, attending workshops, staying informed on the latest evidence-based practices, and sharing her knowledge with the team.
• Mentorship and Support: Her approachable and patient demeanor has made her a trusted resource for colleagues seeking guidance.

There are so many examples to highlight, but if I had to pick one, it is Kirstin’s dedication to the Pathway to Ownership Program. This program was developed through the Med Surg service line to empower Patient Care Techs to own their practice and provide high-quality care to our patients. Pouring into our PCTs in hopes of making a difference in each patient they touch and to assist in reducing turnover. Kirstin helped lead a team of UBEs in developing a hands-on class for the PCTs once they finish orientation. She also assists in facilitating the meet and greet with our new PCTs, which includes introductions to our Med Surg service line and teambuilding. We have had great outcomes with this program and couldn’t have done it without her dedication. She even named the program P2O.

Kirstin is an inspiration and empowers our nursing team as the Unit Educator. Her leadership and dedication to education will not only enhance staff competency but also improve overall patient outcomes. She is caring and has a huge heart for her team and her patients. She is always up for a good challenge and thinks outside of the box. Kirstin makes us better at PAR!

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Kirstin has been an educator for her unit for many years. She ensures new staff are progressing and evaluates any education needs. Working closely with her manager to identify issues or initiatives that need to be reviewed on the unit. She did assist in the education for the DNV Hip and Knee Certification, along with the annual education of her unit. She not only teaches in her unit but also for other educational needs, along with the UBE group, such as skills days. She has a positive attitude, and I appreciate everything she does for PAR!