VNA & Blue Water Hospice leadership honors staff quarterly through the ‘Shining Star’ program, recognizing the extras they do for each other, their patients, and the community.

Let’s get to know Katie!

What do you do at VNA & BWH?
As an RN in Home Health, we are an interdisciplinary team providing comprehensive care for patients in their home. Home Health RN Case Managers are responsible for working with the physician, following an individualized plan of care, assessing patients, and educating them on the disease process, new medications, minor procedures that they may need, as well as wound care and lab draws.

Why did you choose this type of work?
I wanted to be able to get back to connecting with patients and feeling like I’m making a difference in their lives. I love being able to follow them as they get discharged from the hospitals and transition home, until they are well enough to no longer require our Home Health services.

Why do you choose to work at VNA & BWH?
VNA was recommended by a colleague, Lacey. She convinced me it would be a great place to work and just the change I needed, and she was right!

What is a favorite memory you have of work?
This is just such a change from ER nursing. I get to connect with patients, build relationships with them while helping them become more self-sufficient and independent in their home. Every patient gives me new memories.

Maurene recognized Katie as a Shining Star!

1. Dedication – Katie had to do a late start of care earlier this year in a snowstorm. The patient couldn’t be seen until 5 p.m. and Katie went to the patient’s home in the southern part of the county in terrible driving conditions. No complaints and the patient was very appreciative.
2. Patient Advocate – Katie took special care of husband-and-wife patients that needed extra help because their family couldn’t care of them. She went above and beyond to help them. These were exceptional circumstances, so well done, Katie!
3. Willingness – We have had more referrals recently from Macomb area, and it is a lot of extra driving, so thank you for this!
4. Persistent – Katie had a start of care on a Sunday. The patient was not home at the scheduled time. She was able to see other patients while continuing to make a connection with her missed appointment. She finally was able to connect with the patient and still start their care that same day.
   Katie is a great asset to our Home Health team and is appreciated! Thanks for all you do!

If you would like to thank a staff member, volunteer, or physician at VNA & Blue Water Hospice, go to https://www.vnabwh.org/thankyou/.