At Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco, our nurses embody the belief that caring for others begins with caring for ourselves and one another. Rooted in Jean Watson’s Caring Science philosophy, our Caring Science Council, part of the Voice of Nursing (VoN), has created a powerful and uplifting tradition that reminds us of this truth: the Caring Cart Rounds.
Every other month, the Caring Science Council brings joy, gratitude, and connection to every corner of the hospital through these beloved Caring Carts. The carts are beautifully decorated and stocked with snacks and refreshments to provide a moment of comfort and renewal for our nurses and interdisciplinary partners. But they offer far more than treats; they represent a pause, a breath, and a reminder of the sacred human connection that defines our practice.
Each Caring Cart features a rotating display board highlighting professional development opportunities and celebrations across our organization. Team members can learn about upcoming certification prep courses, professional development fairs, mentoring programs, DAISY Award nominations, recent educational achievements, and upcoming wellness events. The carts also include themed photo props, creating lighthearted moments and keepsakes that bring teams together in laughter and unity.
Led by dedicated council members Victoria Palomar, MSN, RN, CCRN; Arline Bocaling, BSN, RN, CCRN; Sherie Domingo, BSN, RN; Leonor Go, BSN, RN; Eileen Grafia, BSN, RN; Eva Chun, BSN, RN; Maureen Crehan, RN, CAPA, CPAN; Carmen Ramos, BSN, RN; Aiza Manugue, BSN, RN; Melissa San Diego, BSN, RN; and Ana Dubon, RN, under the guidance of advisor and RN Magnet Program Director Juan Ibanez, MSN, RN, CENP, NPD-BC, CNOR, these rounds have become something everyone looks forward to.
Each encounter serves as a reminder that healing extends beyond the patient to touch caregivers, colleagues, and the community we serve. Through these moments of connection and gratitude, our nurses embody Kaiser Permanente’s mission to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve, one caring interaction at a time.