Recently, I had Gall Bladder surgery. From start to finish, I felt the entire staff at the Reno VA did an outstanding job. From Pre-Op admin to Pre Op Surgery staff to the OR Surgeons to the Recovery staff, they all are to be commended. Of all the Nurses who helped me during my stay, the one that stood out the most was RN Kate Gross. From the minute I woke up in Recovery to the time I was released, Kate stood out from all the rest. She answered all my questions confidently and offered suggestions that put my recovery in a better place. Her compassion and empathy toward a patient suffering from the pain of surgery and dealing with medical issues made a mark on me. Her drive to become a Nurse Practitioner is also an indication that she wants to be the best she can be and is willing to do the work to get there.

In a two-person room, you cannot avoid hearing discussions about your neighbor's medical problems either. And my neighbor certainly has his own medical problems beyond mine but listening to Kate during those conversations clearly made her stand out in my mind as a person who deserves recognition. The positive upbeat attitude she showed him and I is reflective of her ability in providing the quality patient care the VA is searching for. Even during my very short stay, I could tell she is a role model for VA Nursing. The Reno VA has many outstanding Nurses. Kate Gross is one of them.