Over the past month that I have been rotating through the PICU, I've seen firsthand how Casey advocates for her patients, both medically and personally. Casey made the team aware of some concerns she had regarding the patient's mental wellbeing. She was able to describe in detail what behaviors the patient has displayed that made her concerned.

She provided the team with multiple potential solutions she believed would help the patient psychologically. She also asked for the team to consult our psychologists/therapists. When the psychologist arrived in the unit, Casey brought him to attend, introduced them to each other, and got both parties on the same page. Overhearing most of the conversation, I was beyond moved at how well Casey communicated her concerns to the team, provided a rationale for her proposed solutions, and went out of her way to give specific details to the psychologist so they would be better equipped to help the patient.

I was so impressed by her going above and beyond to evaluate the patient not only physically and medically but also emotionally and psychologically, and by her knowing when to ask for help. There have been other situations this month where I was impressed with how she communicates concerns with the patient or parents’ concerns to the team. If I were ever in the same position as the patient, I would want Casey as my nurse because I know she would fight for what's best for me, especially when I can't fight for myself. Nurses like her are hard, so hard to find. 

Congratulations, Casey, thank you for all you do for our patients, families, & team members! You are an inspiration to us all!