May 12-18 is National Nursing Week. Today we are highlighting Katie Trites, Clinical Practice Lead for Acute Psychiatry, working in Dawson Creek.
How would you describe your own personal/professional transformation throughout your educational journey?
Throughout my educational journey, I have experienced and continue to experience both personal and professional growth. I feel so fortunate to work in a transformational working environment that welcomes innovation, promotes collaboration and ongoing education, and recognizes both individual and team strengths. Being part of this positive space has nurtured my curiosity, encouraged me to ask questions, and continues to inspire me to advocate for meaningful change.
During my time in nursing school, I had a nursing instructor who shared a memorable insight. She said, ”nursing is all about being comfortable with being uncomfortable.” This powerful message still resonates with me today, motivating me to continuously challenge myself by embracing new experiences, seizing opportunities, speaking up, and advocating for quality and safe patient-centered care.
Can you share a specific example of how you have witnessed or contributed to the transformation of health in your community?
Living and working in a rural community in Northern BC presents significant challenges for the residents due to geographical distance and its rural character, particularly for patients confronting mental health-related difficulties. I engage in collaborative efforts with an exceptional team of professionals committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Our team includes specialists in inpatient psychiatry, community mental health, specialized services, and community partnerships. Collaborating with these entities fosters a holistic care approach, promotes positive health outcomes, and actively advances health equity by mitigating barriers for individuals residing in Northern BC.
What motivates you to continue in the nursing profession, especially during challenging times?
Being part of a team that shares similar professional values reinforces my commitment to the nursing profession, particularly in the face of challenging circumstances. Collaborating to ensure the delivery of high-quality care to our patients and witnessing their progress and positive health outcomes serves as a profound source of motivation. I consider myself fortunate to have a supportive network of family and friends who encourage me to embrace new challenges and to endeavor to become the best version of myself.
How do you see the role of nurses evolving in the next decade, particularly in the context of transforming health care?
I believe that nurses have a unique opportunity to facilitate positive change and will play a crucial role in transforming health care. For example, nurses can improve practices to ensure holistic, patient-centered care, resulting in better health outcomes. Effective nursing leadership is crucial as we integrate new nurses into the profession, acting as mentors and role models for future nurses. With new and ongoing health-related challenges emerging in our communities, the need for specialized services will grow, ensuring that patients receive adequate and patient-centered care. This underscores the importance of nursing leadership, continuous education, and opportunities for advancement, allowing nurses to specialize in different areas of health care.
Can you describe a moment when you felt that your work as a nurse made a significant impact on a patient's life?
Recently, our team collaborated with a patient facing multiple health inequities. We worked diligently with the patient, community mental health teams, and other committed professionals to create a comprehensive, patient-centered plan of care for this patient’s success in the community. The plan ensured the patient received the necessary support and care to achieve favourable health outcomes, including overcoming barriers to access adequate care and resources. This achievement was made possible by the dedication and support of the talented professionals involved. When we presented the plan to the patient, he expressed that he felt supported and is now on the right track for change and growth.
Thank you, nurses!
Thanks so much to Katie for sharing her story with us as part of our National Nursing Week series! Watch for more stories about the amazing work our nurses do, every day this week.
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