Kristina has significantly impacted my nursing career in a positive way by demonstrating compassionate leadership.  On multiple occasions, my manager has shown support to me with open arms.  Although this story is personal to me, I can vouch and say that Kristina is always there for her staff in good and bad times.  

From the day I started working on C5, I always felt that I could trust and rely on my manager when I needed to.  I was a baby nurse starting my first job and as any new nurse, I was terrified.  The first time I knew that I could trust and respect Kristina was during my interview.  I explained to Kristina during my interview that due to my religion and keeping the sabbath, I do not work from Friday night to Saturday night.  I was worried that I would never get a job because of this.  Immediately, Kristina told me not to worry and that we would find a solution.  3 and a half years later, she stayed true to her word. 

This was the first of many times that I felt Kristina not only respected me as a nurse but as a human, even though I am different and one of the only Jewish nurses in the hospital.  Every holiday season, Kristina puts up a Menorah to make me feel included. She has always respected my days off on high Jewish holidays.  

I had a Jewish patient whose mom passed away during his hospital stay.  I knew how important it was for him to attend services, and he asked me if her could leave the hospital to attend the funeral.  Unfortunately, due to his medical status, he was unable to do so.  I ran into Kristina’s office with confidence, knowing she would have a solution.  Kristina helped organize a service outside in our lobby area, where the patient’s family was able to come and participate in the services.  Not only was the patient thankful, but I was in tears knowing that my manager did everything she could to help, knowing it was important to me.