Can- do

Sky Cartledge, RPN rolls up her sleeves and gets things done.

The patients Sky cares for in the Brantford General emergency department know she is dedicated to their needs. You will also find agreement from patients across the corridor in the orthopaedic fracture clinic where she fills in. Elsewhere in the hospital, patients participating in a worldwide study coordinated by Sky would also confirm her enthusiasm. If her pets could talk I am sure they too would say Sky is the best master they could possibly have.

“As a kid growing up in Hamilton I enjoyed working with animals at the SPCA and now I have a herd of dogs and birds at home- all from the SPCA of course,” Sky laughs. “I would have more if the city allowed.”

A deep desire to help people, led Sky to become a RPN. She completed her pre-grad education at Brantford General and was hired to work in a surgical unit. That was six years ago. She transferred over to the emergency department, where Sky says, “I really enjoy working in the ER; it is very exciting.” She adds that consoling patients and their families when they receive difficult news is the most difficult part of the job.

A year ago, Dr. Michael Woolfrey, an orthopaedic surgeon, needed assistance in a research study he leads at the Brantford General and Sky was the natural choice. The clinical trial is testing an oral anticoagulant for patients undergoing total hip or knee replacements. Researchers are monitoring the drug to determine if it helps prevent deep blood clots in the legs and lungs.

“This is a worldwide study,” Sky said. “Brantford General is one of only two Ontario hospitals. Overall there are 140 hospitals. This is quite an honour.”

With her additional responsibilities Sky has become an expert in time management. Her work in the clinical trial is in addition to the 12- hour shifts in the emergency department.

As the coordinator for Dr. Woolfrey's clinical trial she works alongside other nurses with patients in the study. This involves monitoring each patient while they are in the hospital, arranging for laboratory tests and follow-up meetings after they are discharged. It also means being on call 24/ 7 for questions or concerns by patients and caregivers.

“Oh it is lovely,” she explained. “I really get to know these patients; certainly on a more personal basis than you can in an emergency department setting. It is going very well.”

Sky's co-workers noticed her efforts and nominated her for an Excellence in Research award. They acknowledged her dedication to her job and the hours it takes every week. Her nomination read, ‘Sky is an RPN who sets and continuously follows high standards during her work at the Brant Community Healthcare System and now she has brought the RPN role into a new light as we continue to contribute to professional nursing practice and the advancement of patient focused care.'

“The award is lovely,” Sky said. “Coming from my peers makes it very special. All the nurses and physicians are excellent to work with and they continually encourage me and are so interested in what I do.”

So, what will this dedicated, busy nurse be doing once the clinical trial is complete? “I expect I will be in ER. We have such a great team and our hospital is very good. I am proud to say I work in the Brantford General emergency department.”

Gary Chalk is Senior Executive Director- Public Affairs & Development for the Brant Community Healthcare System. Brantford General is a regional health centre providing primary, emergency and specialized services. The Willett, Paris is a multi-service health centre providing urgent care, primary care and community outreach programs.