Since pain never sleeps, neither does the pain service. Kim has taken first call for the last 2 years and has come in early and stayed late numerous times. Her compassion and drive to treat pediatric pain motivates me to be a better pain doctor.

A clear example of Kim’s dedication to the children here at Hope is best seen in a patient, MM, who was on our service. MM was a 10 y/o female with a perforated appendix and peritonitis. We had placed the patient on a PCA as well as valium for abdominal spasms. I was paged at 9pm because MM was screaming in pain and no one could figure out what was happening. Kim went into the hospital that night to examine the patient to help us understand why she was having increased pain. From Kim’s exam we determined that MM was actually having psychosis and we were then able to appropriately treat her.

Kim’s compassion is evident with every child on our service. From holding their hands during IV starts, to sitting and talking to them about their fears, to making sure they are as comfortable as possible. If that means getting a warm blanket or heat wrap or ice pack, she is there for her patients. If the primary nurse cannot address a patient’s pain immediately, Kim will administer the medication herself and perform all the documentation that comes with that. I am truly lucky to have such an exemplary Advanced Practice Nurse.