Kellie Donlin
Kellie Donlin, registered nurse, BSN, has witnessed an evolution in healthcare through her experience as a surgical nurse at CHI Health Immanuel.
Having worked in the surgery department for 36 years, and as the director of perioperative services for the last year, Donlin is well versed in the advances made on behalf of patients.
“Before, it was all open surgeries, and now everything is typically done laparoscopically or robotically, which allows the patients to go home the same day, which to me is just amazing,” she said. “Previously, they would have had to stay in the hospital for days as they healed. I mean it’s crazy how much everything has evolved and all for the positive.”
Yet even with all the advancements in surgical technology, Donlin and her team must put in a lot of hard work.
“I do think people have this preconceived idea that surgery is a nine-to-five job and then you go home, but it’s not that way at all. Cases run late, emergencies come in, supplies need to be pulled, equipment moved,” she said. “It can definitely be overwhelming at times, and stressful, so it’s not for everyone, that’s for sure.”
But it’s something that has always intrigued her. While she worked part-time as her dad’s secretary in his medical practice in a small community, she knew surgery was where she wanted to end up. In fact, after graduating from Nebraska Methodist College, Donlin had to wait four years before a position in surgery opened up at CHI. In the interim, she worked on the medical/surgical/oncology unit.
“I love watching the surgeries and collaborating with the other nurses, technicians and surgeons. We are a team,” she said. “Although our patients are asleep, we advocate for them from the moment they arrive until they are discharged. As surgical staff, we have a short window of time to gain their trust and soothe any fear or anxiety of our patients.”
Because the surgical teams work so cohesively, there is a “truly positive culture among us. That is what keeps our staff engaged; therefore we don't have a lot of turnover.”
Donlin recommends that nursing students follow their heart to see what piques their interest. She said new nurses coming onto her floor must undergo a six-month onboarding process that includes surgical-related coursework and testing under the direction of an assigned preceptor. Once hired, surgical nurses work four 10-hour days and are on call one night and one weekend a month.
Kellie Donlin receiving her Heart of Healthcare award
“It’s so exciting to introduce people to the department. We look forward to watching them grow into their careers and become part of our surgical team,” Donlin said. “During surgeries, communication and critical thinking skills are essential. Every surgeon is different. Every surgery is different. One gallbladder surgery might not be the same as the next. The outcomes are the same. But the techniques may vary. What’s critical is learning the idiosyncrasies of each surgeon, the differences in the technology he or she might use, for example. It takes time and experience. It’s not something you can learn overnight.”
In her position, Donlin currently oversees the surgery logistics, including pre- and post-op details, manages the budget, coordinates ordering of supplies and equipment, and provides coaching, mentoring and support for the staff. Donlin also participates in strategic planning as it relates to patient care.
Lori Nahnsen, vice president of patient care services, had great things to say about working with Donlin. “Kellie is a rock star at Immanuel. She leads by example and has a wealth of knowledge. She is championing multiple growth projects and does everything with a smile. I am happy to be able to work with Kellie every day,” she said.
When Donlin received the email alerting her to the fact that she was being recognized as a recipient of a Nurses – Heart of Healthcare award, she was shocked.
“I’ve been doing this job for so long, I just feel overwhelmed by the honor,” she said. “Nursing is just something I really love to do. CHI Immanual is a great hospital to be a part of — faith-based and family oriented with a very positive culture. It has provided me with a wonderful work-life balance, which has been incredibly important to me.”
Award nominees underwent a voting process by a committee of nursing administration and faculty members at Clarkson College.
