Kim Anderson
May 2019
Kim
Anderson
,
RN
Director of Surgical and Procedural Services
Essentia Health- Fargo
Fargo
,
ND
United States

 

 

 

Kim exemplifies all the qualities that make up a leader. I have had the privilege of working with Kim for the last 5 years, as a staff nurse, supervisor, and now as a manager. I could probably write a novel on the many ways Kim has been instrumental in the success her team has achieved over the years.
As many people know, the 2nd floor is chock-full of 'newer' leaders. In her over 20 years of management, I am proud to say that Kim has mentored many of us along the way to lead and inspire others, as she has done for us. I think much of Kim's success is due to her ability to listen attentively, rally her team, and to make sure everyone's voice is heard and is a valuable contribution.
Kim sets the stage for a climate of continuous improvement, by setting high standards so the patients have the best outcomes. She sets expectations of the team with clear goals, holds us accountable for our actions, and makes sure we follow through. She accomplishes this by educating on best practice and rounding daily on each of her departments. She explains the 'why' behind the change and supports us through the changes. Our wins are her wins, our failures are her failures.
Kim has an open-door policy and has perfected her engagement with staff. She genuinely cares about her staff and frequently refers to us as her awesome work family! I have enjoyed watching her interactions with peers and her engagement with providers, to create an atmosphere of trust, teamwork, and relationship building. She knows when to stay humble and when to be fierce! And boy can she be fierce when she needs to be!
One of Kim's exceptional qualities is her desire to unite the procedural departments. She wants the same excellent care for patients, whether they are going to the OR, Cath Lab, Endo, or IR. She supports our UBCs and our Service excellence committee. She gives staff the time and support they need to help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that patients have come to know when they come to Essentia! She celebrates our wins and successes and brags up the 2nd floor all the time.
Kim is always quick to recognize and praise staff, which means the world to people, to get thanks from the 'boss'. Sometimes, I think we forget to acknowledge all the hard work and dedication Kim has given Essentia and her team over the years. She is our fearless leader on the 2nd floor and we would be lost without her! Thank you, Kim, for all you do!