I have worked with Nikki for the past 4 years. I can only describe Nikki as one Extraordinary Nurse. I do not think any other term does her justice. She is one of the most compassionate and caring individuals I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She is the type of nurse who you know will go the extra mile, not only for her patients but for her fellow nurses as well. Nikki can do nine different tasks at once but still have time to ask if you need any help. I consider it an honor to have her as a peer in the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. She is not only a dedicated nurse to her patients but does a phenomenal job in other roles on our unit. She excels as not only a resource nurse but is one of our strongest charge nurses. She is extremely organized, and when she is in charge, she keeps everything running smoothly. Her concern for her fellow peers is evident; she is the one who will post a message on social media after a tough day, hoping that all the nurses she worked with during her shift are doing all right. Nikki is the nurse who is upset when the day does not run smoothly, not only for her own frustration but for the frustration of the nurses working with her. She wants everyone to have a great day! She cares deeply, and it’s a beautiful trait.
 
Her dedication to patient care is also outstanding. She always advocates for all the patients on the floor, both as the patient's nurse and as the charge nurse. Nikki goes above and beyond to find the answers and to make sure the kiddos on the CCBD are getting the best possible care. 

Nikki is also very active in other activities on our floor. She is a strong advocate for the Ethics Committee and one of the inpatient representatives. She has also been actively involved in the Fertility Committee and also works on the CVC-CLABSI Committee. I personally have worked with her on this committee and can speak to her amazing dedication and hard work in helping our unit continue to reduce central line infections. She was heavily involved in the launch of the 1-2-3 Initiative on our floor and continues to be a dedicated committee member. With her help, our unit is achieving higher than 90% compliance on baths, linen changes, oral care, and ambulation.

Nikki is passionate about all that she does, and those who have the privilege of working with her know what an awesome nurse she truly is. She always has a positive attitude; especially when there are 4 admissions, no more nurses, the pager is going off and it’s time to make assignments for the evening. Nikki just smiles and plows on through.  Oh, one more thing, if you are ever in need of a pencil, just check the bun on Nikki’s head, there are usually several of them there. A great nurse and provides office supplies, what more could you ask for?

I hope that this award will recognize and honor the many contributions Nikki has made to the CCBD, and I just want to thank her personally for all that she has done. I cannot think of a more deserving individual.