
Kira Long
January 2025
Kira
Long
,
BSN, RN
3 Central- Medicine
UVA Health
Charlottesville
,
VA
United States
Kira stood there tearing up and rubbing the grandfather's back in a way to show that she was there to support all involved and reassure him that she knew this was a difficult thing.
Kira Long constantly shows what it means to be an extraordinary nurse. Her ongoing efforts to go above and beyond for patients and coworkers are seen by all who work with her. Whether crafting birthday hats for patients or celebrating milestones of her colleagues, Kira consistently demonstrates a genuine care for those around her. A recent example underscores her exceptional compassion and professionalism. A patient on 3 Central, whose health had significantly declined during her admission, was transitioning to DNAR-C after her 13-year-old daughter's visit--more than likely the first time the daughter would see her mother in the hospital. What Kira did for this patient and family on this day shows once again how much she truly cares for her patients. As the patient's nurse that day, Kira quickly took steps to ensure the visit was as meaningful and supported as possible. She kept checking in with the father of the patient to get updates about when the patient's daughter would be arriving at the hospital. Kira looped in all the necessary resources to have support for the daughter, patient and other family members. These included the primary team, chaplain, palliative care doctors, management, charge nurse, and palliative care social worker. Kira ensured the family's physical needs were met while making sure there were chairs, tissues, and a comfort cart with snacks and drinks to help them through the emotional times. When Kira saw that the patient's grandfather, who was visibly struggling, was standing in the hallway, about to fall over from being so upset. She quickly had someone grab a chair while she stayed with him and helped him sit down. Kira stood there tearing up and rubbing the grandfather's back in a way to show that she was there to support all involved and reassure him that she knew this was a difficult thing. Kira kept checking on the patient and family members throughout the day, while caring for her other patients, to make sure the patient was comfortable. In addition to her compassionate presence, Kira was a very good advocate for her patients' comfort. When the patient expressed discomfort and pain, Kira immediately contacted the primary team and tried to talk through what would be the best thing for the patient at that time. This is only one of the many ways I have witnessed Kira Long going above and beyond for her patients.