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Make it a best practice to regularly check your email. There you’ll find information on professional development opportunities, educational events, important nurse-related news, and much more! Further, the new annual peer feedback process requires you use your KP email. Easily check your email from any shared workstation by using webmail.kp.org.  Don't forget to log out of webmail once you're done checking your email. Need help getting your email reactivated? Follow these steps below while using a KP device. Note: You may be required to enter your NUID and single sign-on password a few times while initially getting started.  Step 1: Log in to www.Microsoft365.com Click on your KP email address if it automatically appears and go to Step 3. Or select ‘Use another account.’ Step 2: Enter your KP email address and hit next. Step 3: Microsoft 365 will open. Select the Apps icon from the column on the left and select Outlook. Click New mail in upper left corner, and send an email to a colleague. Going forward, you can simply log into webmail.kp.org to check your email. If these instructions do not work for you, please submit a ticket using KP Service Now for help getting your account activated.

“Vivek has been my mentor from the beginning, teaching, guiding, and assisting me with everything I needed to become a successful nurse practitioner,” said Amber Luu, NP at Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center. Vivek Venkatakrishnan, MD, FACP, was named a Friend of Nursing – Interprofessional Colleague for the 2024 Extraordinary Nurse Award program. He is an internal medicine physician at the Kaiser Permanente Antioch Medical Center and has been with Kaiser Permanente for nearly four years. Inspiration for Health Care “I come from a family of doctors and grew up hearing wonderful stories about my grandfather, a former army doctor. My parents were general practitioners in a small village in India and were deeply respected and adored by their patients. Their dedication and compassion inspired me to pursue a career in health care,” said Venkatakrishnan. “I am inspired by my colleagues, who remain calm and supportive whenever I need help. Together, we share a common goal: to provide the best care for our patients at Kaiser Permanente,” he added. Leading with Purpose “Leading with purpose means taking each day as it comes and not overthinking things, even on tough days, because I know tomorrow will be better,” shared Venkatakrishnan. Delivering Care Excellence “While performing a shoulder injection on a patient, I needed assistance,” said Luu. “Vivek confirmed that my injection placement was correct, and then stayed to help calm the patient, offering reassurance that they were in good hands,” said Luu. “The empathy he demonstrates daily towards patients and as a mentor makes him extraordinarily deserving of this award,” Luu added.  

“Mohit goes above and beyond every day to connect with emergency department staff to understand their challenges. He works tirelessly to make this department better, and he is always willing to help anyone and everyone who asks for help,” said Chaitali Patel, BSN, RN, quality and safety improvement consultant, Kaiser Permanente San Leandro Medical Center. Mohit Roberts is recognized as a Friend of Nursing – Interprofessional Colleague in the 2024 Extraordinary Nurse Award program. He is the manager of Administrative Services at the Kaiser Permanente San Leandro Medical Center and a 4-year Kaiser Permanente employee. Inspiration for Health care Working in health care runs in Mohit’s family. “My mother is a telemetry nurse, and my father works as a lab assistant at the Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center. Both have been dedicated employees at KP, and their commitment to health care has been a constant source of pride in our family,” said Roberts. “My colleagues also inspire me by having the best interest of our staff, department, and patients in mind. We all work together to ensure we can bring positive changes in people’s lives,” added Roberts. Leading with Purpose "My purpose in life is to do everything I can to make it easier for my staff to work in the emergency department. I aim to create streamlined workflows and ensure that materials are readily available so staff can find satisfaction in their work and effectively help those in need," said Roberts. “Recently, the San Leandro Emergency Department (ED) underwent a floor replacement project, requiring us to close a pod at a time. To help accommodate this project, Mohit helped the ED change workflows, created alternate spaces for patient care, and ensured all materials were readily available,” explained Patel. Delivering Care Excellence “As part of my job, I oversee operations and budget for the ED. I partner with material services to ensure the department has adequate supplies. If we are low on a specific supply, I order a qualified alternative, so nurses have what they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Mohit. “I also partner with nurses and staff to ensure proper workflows, operations, and storage of materials so that they do not waste time looking for supplies.” “Mohit is dedicated to his role and department. He strives to make this place better every day. He deserves to be recognized for the extraordinary job he does daily,” said Patel.

“Shavi shows great leadership as our nurse leader who is implementing our unique delirium program to prevent and treat delirium,” described a colleague about working with Shavinderpal Sanga, MSN, RN, CNS, ACCNS-AG, GERO-BC, who was named a 2024 Extraordinary Nurse, Advanced Practice. Sanga, who has been with Kaiser Permanente since 2012, is a Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) at the South Sacramento Medical Center where she focuses on enhancing the quality of care for older adults by educating nurses on best practices and empowering them to become champions of evidenced-based care. Prior to her CNS role, she practiced nursing in critical care and the PACU in South Sacramento and in Fresno. Inspiration for Nursing Sanga shares that she was drawn to nursing through encounters in the healthcare field while her mom was receiving care. “Among all the disciplines, the nurse at the bedside was always readily available, providing support during the most vulnerable times in person's life,” Sanga shares. “As I progressed in my nursing career, I realized I had made the right choice.” During nursing school, she learned about the role of the Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) as an advance practice nurse. "While shadowing in a cardiology clinic, I met a CNS who independently saw patients and collaborated with providers to enhance patient care and manage symptoms," she shared. "She taught me so much in just half an hour, and I was fascinated by her unique role, which involved improving both system-level processes and patient outcomes." Sanga has notes she is inspired today by the colleague’s dedication to improve patient care, her mentors who have supported her career as a nurse, and by the resilience and courage of the patients we care for. Leading with Purpose “I lead with purpose by supporting staff and providing consults and care for patients, always prioritizing their needs and well-being,” shared Sanga. “It brings me immense joy to influence patient care directly, act as a change agent, and enhance clinical practice by supporting nursing staff.” By staying informed about the latest research and best practices in nursing and healthcare, Sanga advocates for evidence-based practice and to implement effective interventions at the bedside. “By fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement, I aim to make a lasting positive impact on both patients and the healthcare team,” she added. Delivering Care Excellence “Shavi spends a great deal of time speaking with patients and their families, performing a physical assessment, and reviewing the patient’s history and medication list,” said a colleague who nominated Sanga for the Extraordinary Nurse award. “She is exceptionally knowledgeable in geriatrics and is frequently consulted by physicians and clinical nurses in the medical-surgical, telemetry, intensive care, and emergency departments." Added Shanga, “Witnessing their determination in the face of illness motivates me to strive for excellence in my role.”  

"As a long-term Kaiser Permanente Oakland Emergency Department staff member, Amelia is an authentic leader whose strong ability to inspire, influence and direct others is rooted in her experience of doing the work itself," said Paul-Andre Abboud, MD, emergency medicine, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center. "Amelia is highly organized, always follows through, and knows how to speak the truth reassuringly, even when it hurts a little," said Abboud. Amelia Roberts, MSN, RN, is the Service Director, Oakland Medical Center Emergency Department and a 19-year Kaiser Permanente employee. Inspiration for Nursing "Caring for my sick grandmother as a teenager inspired me to become a nurse. From a young age, I realized that caretaking came naturally and brought me joy," recalled Roberts. "Additionally, I have been fortunate to work alongside some of the most talented, intelligent, compassionate, and dedicated colleagues since 2005. They inspire me to advocate for our patients, stand up for what is right, and remain committed to continuous learning and improvement," added Roberts. Leading with Purpose "I strive to lead by setting a positive example of kindness, respect, and service for our patients and the teams that support them. My goal is to be honest, transparent, and approachable. I believe that if the teams caring for our patients are whole, happy, and fulfilled, our patients will achieve better outcomes," said Roberts. In the Oakland Medical Center emergency department, Amelia was crucial in mentoring and leading registered nurses (RN) and non-RN managers, focusing on servant leadership. Her efforts resulted in significant achievements, such as implementing a new graduate and transition nursing program and a high People Pulse response rate in March 2023. Additionally, under Amelia's leadership, the successful implementation of a new graduate and transition program has not only repaired the staffing deficit but paved the way for a brighter future in nursing. Delivering Care Excellence "Amelia Roberts is a fantastic leader. She worked with her team to improve their processes for low acuity patient throughput and remain #2 in the Region, said Tia Newell, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, associate chief nursing executive at the Richmond Medical Center. "She has demonstrated creative, innovative thinking, and with the help of IT, created an iPhone App for the nurse manager to receive real-time alerts for any patient concerns and allow for seamless shift handoffs and urgent notifications to the management team," said Newell. "She is the best example of a leader I can think of. She is dedicated to her patients and staff and has the intelligence and confidence to lead them to success. I don't know what we would do without her," said Eliza White, MD, emergency medicine, Oakland Medical Center.

"Cherry is a wonderful member of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit team. She always goes the extra mile to lend a helping hand, even when a patient isn't hers. Her focus on supporting everyone in the unit makes a difference and increases team morale," said Kavita Gupta, RN, Kaiser Permanente Fremont Medical Center. Cherry David, BSN, RN, is a Staff Nurse IV at the Fremont Medical Center and a 26-year Kaiser Permanente employee. Inspiration for Nursing  "One afternoon, my father suddenly clutched his chest and gasped, 'I think I'm having a heart attack.' My mom and I rushed him to the hospital, terrified at the thought of losing him. Thankfully, the doctor's calm voice brought us relief: 'It's hyperacidity, not a heart attack.' While my parents relaxed after the news, a knot remained in my chest. As I stood there watching them, I realized I wanted to become someone who could help," recalled David. Leading with Purpose "Leading with purpose means more than just fulfilling clinical duties; it's about guiding with intention, compassion, and clarity. It's creating an environment where patients feel safe, supported, and heard and where my team is motivated and focused on providing exceptional care," stated David. "Cherry leads huddles to share updates, challenges, and potential solutions with her colleagues," said Gupta. "She ensures the team is well-informed and able to adapt to new practices effectively, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement." Delivering Care Excellence  "When I enter the hospital, it's not just a building — it's filled with people who need care," David shares. "A patient's hand trembles as they reach for mine, and I gently hold it, offering comfort." David is deeply involved in improving patient care and preventing Surgical Site Infections (SSI) as one of the SSI RN Champions. In this role, she attends monthly meetings to discuss opportunities to prevent SSIs. She helps ensure that key practices such as the use of chlorhexidine gluconate wipes, maintaining normothermia, antibiotic prophylaxis, warming devices, and glucose control are strictly followed, ultimately improving patient care. Further, she helps collect and analyze data on nursing practices and adherence to the SSI Bundle to ensure the team can evaluate and refine workflows for maximum effectiveness. "Cherry is not only good with her patients but also with her coworkers. "She is a team player and always has a smile on her face," said Gupta.

When you work with Gabrielle Fandelle, there's an undeniable sense of relief. Known for her expertise, compassion, and teamwork, Fandelle has become a vital part of the Sacramento Appointment and Advice Care Center (AACC) at Kaiser Permanente. Her colleagues describe her as someone who brings knowledge and strength to the workplace — qualities that earned her the 2024 Extraordinary Nurse honor. Gabrielle Fandelle, MSN, CNS, RN, AMB-BC, is an Advice Nurse, Charge Nurse III at Kaiser Permanente Sacramento's AACC, and a 10-year employee of Kaiser Permanente. Inspiration for Nursing Having been a nurse for 16 years, Fandelle embodies the essence of nursing. For her, the profession is deeply personal. "Caring for the body, mind, and soul is one of the most fundamental needs we have as humans," she says. Her journey into nursing began with a desire to provide comfort and healing during life's most vulnerable moments. Over the years, she has found inspiration in the patients she serves and her resilience and dedication to her fellow nurses. Over her tenure at Kaiser Permanente, Fandelle has become known for her ability to connect deeply with patients and colleagues alike. As an Advice Nurse, she brings warmth and compassion to every interaction, ensuring members and their families feel heard and cared for. From the first phone call to the final recommendation, Fandelle provides a comprehensive assessment that integrates the patient's health history, symptoms, and personal concerns. Her clear, concise communication with physicians and specialists and understanding of complex resources ensure the safest outcomes for every patient. Leading with Purpose As a leader, Fandelle believes in empowering others. She fosters an environment where her team feels supported and heard, knowing collaboration is key to delivering exceptional care. Her role often involves mentoring new nurses and offering guidance as they transition into their roles at the advice center. Weekly group meetings with new hires provide a space for open conversations about challenges, mental well-being, and finding balance. For Fandelle, these interactions are more than routine—they're an opportunity to mentor and nurture the next generation of nursing professionals. Delivering Care Excellence Fandelle takes great pride in her role within the AACC, recognizing its importance in Kaiser Permanente's larger vision of health and wellness. "Every interaction we have, whether with patients or each other, contributes to meaningful change and an opportunity for a positive outcome. One interaction at a time," she says. Her passion for nursing is matched only by her commitment to her team and patients. Whether supporting new nurses, guiding a patient through a complex care plan, or collaborating with a high-level team to ensure patient safety, Fandelle continues to set the bar for excellence.  

"In the last few years, Ayra elevated our department's culture of safety and expeditious care to a much higher echelon — beyond the standard," said Leo Ruel Eusebio, MSN, MHA, RN, CEN, CPEN, Emergency Department service director, Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center. Ayra Dee, BSN, RN, CEN, CPEN, is a staff nurse IV in the Kaiser Permanente South San Francisco Medical Center Emergency Department and a 23-year employee. Inspiration for Nursing   "I was fascinated with medical science and its impact on caring for others. I can make a meaningful difference by helping others and understanding how their bodies function," said Dee. "My nursing colleagues are also a constant source of inspiration. They show immense dedication, compassion, and resilience. I admire how they manage the demands of patient care while remaining empathetic. From their communication with patients to their collaboration in solving problems, I learn something new from them every day," added Dee. Leading with Purpose  "I lead with purpose by prioritizing the well-being of my patients in everything I do. Whether I am working directly with patients or collaborating with colleagues, my focus is on achieving positive outcomes and ensuring that every decision aligns with the best interests of my patients," explained Dee. "The quality initiatives that Ayra has proposed, along with her enthusiasm for creating a safer environment for both patients and staff, have a significant impact," said Eusebio. In 2023, Ayra served on the pediatric committee, where she played a key role in the Pediatric Medication Safety initiative and the successful implementation of our Pediatric Asthma Protocol. "I provided training to the staff on how to assess asthma severity using the Pediatric Asthma score and on the proper application of the protocol," said Dee. "This led to accurate assessments for our patients." Delivering Care Excellence   "I take some time to think about why I became a nurse and how my work aligns with what truly matters to me. When I connect with my 'why,' I show up with passion, energy, and commitment, which makes a real difference in the care I give my patients," shared Dee. "I'll never forget the day Ayra cared for two critically ill patients while our emergency department  was bustling with activity. The place was packed, with patients filling every corner and inpatients waiting for longer-term placements," said Eusebio. "That day, we hit our highest score on the National Emergency Department Overcrowding Scale (NEDOCS)," Eusebio recalled. "Despite all the chaos, Ayra didn't let the challenges stop her. She stayed calm, focused, and dedicated, providing exceptional care while guiding the department through a challenging situation." "Ayra is an extraordinary nurse and an everyday hero. What matters most to her is ensuring she does not harm and, ultimately, saving and making a positive difference in her patients' lives," emphasized Eusebio.

Two recent reunions reconnected staff with families grateful for the care of their children during a vulnerable time.

“Salvacion is a shining example of an outstanding nurse,” says a colleague at the Santa Clara Medical Center who nominated her for the award. “Her unwavering commitment to enhancing the well-being of our patients and their families serves as an inspiration to her colleagues.” Salvacion Romero, BSN, RN, a staff nurse IV in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at the Santa Clara Medical Center, was named a 2024 Extraordinary Nurse for Maternal Child Health. Romero has worked at the medical center for 22 years and is recognized for leading the Santa Clara NICU team participation in the Babies with Books international read-a-thon last year, surpassing 192 NICUs worldwide to secure first place in the annual event. Inspiration for Nursing From a young age, Romero dreamed of becoming a nurse, with her mother helping fuel her desire to care for others. “She always told me all about nursing and said I had the characteristics of a nurse,” shared Romero. As an older sister, and now a mom of three kids, she loves caring for babies. “There’s nothing like being a NICU nurse,” she said. Leading with Purpose “It’s all about being a team player,” said Romero. “Everybody in the NICU is extraordinary, always going the extra mile every single time to care for the babies and their parents.” Delivering Care Excellence Romero provides the best care possible by ensuring the vital signs are stable, keeping babies in her care safe, and helping them meet their growth, developmental, and nutritional needs. Under Romero’s guidance, the Santa Clara NICU recorded an impressive 1,151 reading sessions over seven days, significantly contributing to the well-being of the premature babies in their care. Colleagues share that this initiative not only highlights Romero’s dedication to excellence but also underscores her understanding of the critical role that compassion, teamwork, and patient-centered care play in healthcare. The reading program extends beyond the annual competition and is a standard practice in the Santa Clara NICU. “I enjoy talking and reading to the babies,” shared Romero.