Sibley Memorial Hospital would not be Sibley without nurses like Christy Conner. I met her on my first day as a new graduate nurse in the Emergency Department. I had tons of pre-hospital emergency medicine experience but almost no hospital experience and I was nervous. I had been fed horror stories from other new graduates about their preceptors and yet here I was with the exception. My preceptor was a kind and patient nurse who had me giggling and feeling not so out of place within a couple hours.
Christy taught me not only how to navigate the hospital and my new fellow employees, she also taught me about myself. She gave me feedback about how I could integrate skills I already had into the ER and challenged me by identifying what skills I did not have and would need. With her guidance, patience, and ability to identify personality traits she helped me transition into the ER as smoothly as possible and to become successful.
The most exceptional thing about Christy is that she always has the time to help you. She is never too busy or unavailable. She will keep an eye on the track board and if she sees outstanding tasks or thinks you are about to be overwhelmed, her head will suddenly pop into a room letting you know that she medicated, ambulated, fed, or soothed your patient for you. I also know that the next time I enter that patient's room, they will be one of my happiest patients of the day and that is because they have met Christy Conner.
Her patient care starts with a smile and an introduction. Patients immediately trust her and want her to care for them. She treats every patient with kindness and respect. She immediately puts patients at ease. She ensures that patients are as comfortable as possible and that all their needs have been met before she leaves a room. She explains every step of care to them and always has the time to answer all their questions.
My favorite part of a work week is when Christy will be working the same day. She will find the time to come and make me feel special, hear me and guide me. Her attention to detail both personally and professionally is unmatched. Even though I have told her how exceptional she is, she is humble. She lives her life as her faith in God and people directs her with kindness, patience, love, and caring. Christy Conner deserves to receive recognition for all that she has done and will do for her coworkers and patients in the ER.