Kelly Broderick-Compton, RN, BSN Nurse Leader IV Emergency Department

Background

I received my Associate’s degree from Alfred State University, Alfred, NY; then went on to Nazareth College, Rochester, NY, for my BSN.  I’ve also received several certifications including ACLS, TNCC Instructor, and ENPC.  I worked at another hospital in the Region for close to a year but wasn’t happy.  My aunt was a patient at Highland Hospital and I was impressed with the care she received so I took a closer look.  When I came to Highland I said, “This is it!”

Time at Highland Hospital

I’m a long-timer.  I’ve been in the ED for several years.

Career Path at Highland Hospital

After working on an Ortho/Neuro floor I floated to the Emergency Department on a 13-week challenge program and loved it.  I’ve been here ever since. 

My Dominant Personality Traits

I’ve always been one of those people who care about people.  I’ve got a nurturing personality and that fits right in with the culture here.  I enjoy the challenge of dealing with patients in crisis, getting control of and resolving very difficult situations.  I particularly enjoy the teaching hospital atmosphere we have as being part of the University of Rochester Medical Center.  As a community hospital, I think we’ve got the best of both worlds.

About the Ambulatory Procedure Center

It can seem hectic and chaotic in any ED.  Of course, there really is order in the chaos, but you have to be flexible.  On an average day we see about 85 patients, and treat everything from MIs, strokes, GI bleeds, and respiratory problems, abdominal pains, female issues, orthopedic problems and many other complaints.  When you work in the ED you’re constantly learning. You never know what is going to roll through the door or with what problem.  You have to be ready to act quickly and use your critical thinking skills.  I honestly can’t think of a better department to learn about prioritizing and learning time management.  You also get plenty of opportunity to practice a comprehensive variety of clinical skills. 
The focus in the ED is different than elsewhere in the hospital.  In the ED, we do a quick head-to-toe assessment on the patient, but mainly concentrate on the presenting problem.  Sometimes within minutes of meeting a patient, an IV has to be placed and medications administered.  Since an ED visit can be stressful for both patients and family, some may be cantankerous and uncooperative.  We have to stay calm and try to support both the patient as well as the family members.

My co-workers and support staff are the best team of professionals I’ve ever worked with.  Everyone works together from the physicians on down.  Our physicians are great and highly respected by all of us.   

Our ED is progressive in our use of information technology.  We use the Picis™ triage and disposition system.  It helps us track and manage patient flow, supports clinical decision making and assists in clinical documentation.  It’s user friendly and helpful. 

After more than twenty years here, I still get excited about coming to work.