Katelyn McElhaney, a pediatric nurse practitioner at Akron Children’s Pediatrics, Lisbon
Every day at Akron Children’s, we strive to deliver compassionate care and create positive experiences for our patients and families. This month, we’re spotlighting a nurse practitioner at Akron Children’s Pediatrics, Lisbon, who recently received the following feedback from a patient family:
“Due to time constraints we needed to see a different provider…The provider we saw (Katelyn McElhaney) for this visit was a true delight. She made my son feel comfortable talking about his physical and mental health. She was respectful and kind, explaining things simply and answering questions with confidence. My son struggles with anxiety, so even simple appointments like this sports physical are stressful for him. She finished her exam and asked if he had any questions. He asked what the physical exam would entail and she sweetly, but politely replied, ‘That was it. It’s all over.’ We all smiled. She was so down-to-earth, caring and efficient that he hadn’t even a moment to worry about what was next. We have had other visits for immunizations and strep cultures which were filled with stalling and tears… We have had the highest level of care from the Lisbon office and are so thankful.”
How long have you worked at Akron Children’s, and what’s your role?
I’ve worked at Akron Children’s since February of 2019 as a pediatric nurse practitioner in the Akron Children’s Pediatrics’ Lisbon office.
Reflecting on this patient experience and the feedback you received, how do you feel about it?
It’s always nice to read positive patient experiences. I am always incredibly humbled by the kind words I receive from my patients’ families. It fills me with a sense of joy and gratitude, knowing that my work has made a positive impact. The recognition for this patient experience reminds me to continue to be compassionate and warm.
How do you strive to make patients and their families feel comfortable during their visit?
I think establishing a good relationship with the patients and their families is important. I always strive to make patients and their families feel comfortable during their visit by creating a warm and welcoming environment. I greet them with a smile and try to make the visit fun. I make sure to explain procedures and treatments in a way that is easy to understand both for the family and for the patient. I try to anticipate their needs and provide accommodations to make their experience as comfortable as possible. My ultimate goal is to make them feel valued and cared for throughout their entire experience.
What does patient- and family-centered care mean to you? How do you strive to deliver that care?
To me, patient- and family-centered care means putting the patient and their loved ones at the heart of our health care decisions. It’s about involving them in the evaluation and treatment of their care and ensuring their needs are respected throughout their experience. I work hard to make sure both the patient and their family feel heard and supported in their own care.
What do you most enjoy about your work at Akron Children’s?
What I enjoy most about working at Akron Children’s is the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of children and their family. I love being able to provide care, support and education to them in a fun and easy manner. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that I’ve been able to provide a comfortable environment while at the office.
