I am a nursing student in my final semester of school, and I just finished my rotation on the telemetry 8 unit at Renown Regional Medical Center. I would like to recognize Kourtnie Fricke.
I was incredibly fortunate to get the chance to follow Kourtnie on two separate clinical rotations. What really made her stand out, was her passion for patient advocacy. Kourtnie was organized, hard-working, and thorough in her patient assessments. She took the time to really listen to what each client had to say and validated their feelings and comments. Kourtnie showed tremendous compassion to everyone, including those who were restrained, confused, lonely, scared, or in terrible pain.
Every time, Kourtnie had the opportunity to take a break or relax, she instead chose to call doctors, case managers, rehab, nutrition, palliative care, or hospice. If she wasn't actively trying to find the necessary resources that her patients needed or wanted, Kourtnie could be found taking a client on a walk, giving a patient a bed bath, changing a dressing, or comforting a concerned family member. Kourtnie even chose to work on her charts in a room that belonged to a patient who was very lonely, so she could keep the woman company.
The care and level of support that Kourtnie provided had just as much of an impact on me, as I know it did on her patients. In addition to being a phenomenal nurse, Kourtnie was also an amazing teacher. Kourtnie helped me understand the disease process of our clients, ethical issues, and how to assess for worsening symptoms and contact the necessary support. I will be a better nurse because I got to work with Kourtnie.
Kourtnie Fricke exemplified the qualities of a true DAISY Nurse. She is an outstanding nurse providing her patients with the highest level of care, and doing so with warmth and joy. This woman deserves recognition!