Christina Knapp
April 2017
Christina
Knapp
,
BSN, RN, CCRN
Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC
Pittsburgh
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

Christina has always been an exemplary nurse in the PICU. She serves as an outstanding patient advocate and a great support system for other nurses. Although I have always considered myself lucky to work alongside Christina, there was a moment the other day that made me really proud.
A patient's family in the PICU had decided to redirect care and make the patient comfortable. This was a very difficult decision, especially because they were so close to the patient's high school graduation. The mother of the patient was very distraught because the patient would not be able to receive his diploma. In an effort to help the situation, Christina spent a lot of time crafting the patient a cap and gown out of various materials on the unit including an isolation gown. The mother was ecstatic. The principal came to the hospital the next day to give the patient their diploma, and the mother showed every person who came in the room the cap and gown that were made for him.
I think in nursing, these are the moments that matter the most. Christina went above and beyond, as she always does. I am so proud and fortunate to be able to work beside Christina.