Now more than ever, Independence Blue Cross recognizes the invaluable role that nurses play in caring for our families and communities. To show our appreciation, we are honoring outstanding nurses in our region through the second annual Celebrate Caring campaign. As part of the campaign, we’re highlighting how our winners and honorees are making a difference in the community through compassion and superior care.
Andrea Kirsch, CRNP, is part of an all-female team of clinical staff at Women for Women OB/GYN, a part of Axia Women’s Health. She’s been a nurse for over 35 years — with 20 of those spent at Women for Women. Part of what Andrea likes most about the gynecology specialty is that you get to know your patients over time.
That means being there for them during some of life’s most joyful and most challenging times. Andrea’s nomination for Celebrate Caring was special because it came directly from a patient Andrea has known for ten years.
“I’ve worked in other areas of nursing, and in well women care you see the same patients and develop a warm relationship with them. Certainly, that patient was one of them,” said Andrea.
Delivering Comfort and Care
Andrea was by this patient’s side for multiple pregnancies that led to healthy newborns. But then, the patient suffered the devastating loss of a miscarriage. When she got pregnant again six months later, she couldn’t shake the fear of losing her baby again.
Andrea was there to reassure her, every step of the way. There were complications early on that added to the patient’s anxiety. But Andrea answered all her questions, saw her more regularly, and proactively checked in.
Going Above and Beyond
When it was time for the baby to arrive, Andrea was near the Labor and Delivery unit. She stopped in to stay hello and witnessed the birth of a healthy baby, a moment she recalls being truly lovely.
As the patient who nominated Andrea for the award tells the story, “When the big day came for my baby to be born, Andrea took time out of her schedule to be there cheering me on when I delivered him, even though that’s not a part of her job. I am so appreciative.”
Giving and Caring in Times of Need
These small moments of compassion in nursing go a long way in making someone feel safe and cared for during some of life’s most important moments — that’s what nursing is all about for Andrea.
“For me it’s really about giving and caring. And just making sure that when people are sick and need you that you’re there for them. That you do your very best to take care of people and help them,” she said.
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