Kristine Gaynor is an exceptional nurse manager and a true asset to our telemetry unit.  Starting as a staff nurse on our floor, her leadership potential was immediately recognized, and when the nurse manager position became available, we all knew who we wanted to lead us.  In the three years since her appointment, she has consistently exceeded expectations. Staff often joke that Kristine is 'hard to break up with' because of her supportive leadership style, which is reflected in her staff retention rates.  She frequently works night shifts to see all her staff, a testament to her respectful and supportive leadership style. She champions professional development, leading to an increase in nurses achieving certification and actively pursuing clinical ladder advancement. Kristine encourages us to further our education and exemplifies lifelong learning by currently pursuing her master's in nursing leadership at Stonybrook.

Kristine treats all patients and their families with the same compassion she shows her staff. Her warm smile and engaging stories immediately put people at ease, making each patient feel like a top priority. She rounds on every patient, ensuring their safety and satisfaction by staying informed about their medical plan and family dynamics. One striking example of her dedication involves a young father admitted to our unit with terminal cancer.  He was on several medications, including a narcotic drip for pain management and supplemental oxygen.  He expressed to Kristine he did not want his young children to see him in the hospital room, so she came up with a plan.  Every day, until the day before he passed, Kristine either brought him outside to the courtyard herself to see his family or arranged staff to be available.  Doing this safely was no easy task with his extensive pain and medical requirements, but she made sure she kept her promise to this family.  His wife, siblings, and friends were so appreciative of the time they got to spend with him outside the hospital walls, where he was able to feel the breeze, watch his children play, and feel more like himself.  

This is just one example of Kristine's exceptional patient care. She consistently demonstrates a hands-on approach, working alongside her team at the bedside. Kristine embodies the qualities of a true nurse leader: compassion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence.