Kayla Diekmann, BSN, RN, originally joined our The Jewish Hospital – Mercy Health team during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, she didn’t let this take away from her excitement of being a new nurse.
“I started working in July of 2020,” she shares. “I began my nursing career, like many new graduates, during the COVID-19 pandemic – which was very eye-opening and slightly scary. The excitement of becoming a new nurse was also matched with the uncertainty of a pandemic.”
Kayla works in the intensive care unit (ICU) where every day is different and there are many opportunities to learn something new.
“In the ICU, we see many different types of medical care needs, including neurological, medical, surgical and cardiac patients. We see patients of all ages, with different medical concerns, and some patients with two or more different medical conditions.”
Kayla feels that caring for patients and helping their health conditions improve are the most important parts of her career.
She adds, “the most rewarding aspect of my work is being able to help the patient and their family through a very difficult time in their life.”
During difficult work situations, Kayla reminds herself of why she chose this career and why nursing is her passion.
“I hope to provide a sense of comfort for my patient and their family by keeping an open line of communication, whether that be explaining what the plan of care looks like or just be present to listen.”
Kayla recalls a time when she was providing care to a COVID-19 patient. The patient’s family was very thankful for her compassion and expertise.
“His wife thanked me and the other nurses for what we have done for her family and other families during this pandemic,” she says. “Knowing that we were able to help keep him comfortable during this time and be a support person for their family was very meaningful.”
We’re grateful for dedicated nurses like Kayla who answer the call to help others as part of Mercy Health, where nurses mean the world!
Learn how you can join our talented team of nurses.
