Meet Kaitlin Rose. She works 24 hours in a clinical role at the Lynchburg General Hospital Emergency Department (ED) and 12 hours each week as a lead preceptor at the Gretna ED, supporting new hires. She is also part of the ED Medical Emergency Team (MET) responding to the sickest patients, and works as a charge nurse, coordinating patient flow and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.
“I've been a nurse for 13 years this year, and my genuine desire to help people drove me to this career. I have the opportunity to make a positive impact—not just by addressing medical needs but also by offering emotional support. It gives me a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment,” Rose explained. “I really hope I can build trust and meaningful connections.”
A typical ED shift is fast-paced, with a steady stream of patients facing some of the worst days of their lives. Kaitlin’s shift begins with a report from the previous nursing team, prioritizing patients based on severity. Critical cases come first, and all patients are continually monitored for any changes.
“To stay organized, I rely on strong communication with the ED team. If I'm in the MET role, I'm constantly updating the charge nurse and watching for patients who might deteriorate. As a charge nurse, my coworkers act as my eyes and ears of the department,” Rose said. “Despite the busyness, staying focused and flexible is key since we must adjust quickly to patient needs.”
Triage plays a crucial role in determining a patient’s next steps, whether it be additional imaging, admission, or discharge. Upon entering the ED, patients complete registration before triage, where nurses check vital signs and assess symptoms to ensure the most appropriate care. Two nurses staff triage 24/7, with a third joining during peak hours to manage flow efficiently.
“We have standard nursing protocols to expedite care once patients reach the back,” Kaitlin said. “Patients are directed to different areas—pediatrics, major bays, fast track, or the main side (pods)—to prioritize care based on shared complaints, vital signs, and test results.”
During peak hours, a physician joins the triage team to expedite orders for labs, imaging, and medications.
“Let’s say you need a CT. I can’t order it as a nurse, but a provider can,” Rose explained. “Even if you’re waiting for a room, your care is still moving forward because you’re already in line for necessary tests.”
The ED environment can be emotionally and mentally demanding, especially during high-volume periods.
“One of the most difficult parts of being an ED nurse is managing the emotional and mental toll,” Rose shared. “We handle high-stress situations with patients facing severe injuries or life-threatening conditions. Balancing empathy with effective care can be exhausting, but making a difference in someone’s life is incredibly rewarding.”
Beyond emergencies, seasonal sicknesses, such as respiratory illness, are traditionally high this time of year, in addition to flu and COVID, further straining ED resources.
“Our community’s Urgent Care facilities, walk-in clinics, and Primary Care offices are full, and we live in an incredibly chronically ill population,” Rose said. “In a perfect world, we’d get everyone straight back, but like EDs across the nation, we’re managing unprecedented demand.”
The ED prioritizes the most critical patient cases, while evaluating the needs of all patients according to severity. Every patient deserves dignity, empathy, and respect and Centra expects the same courtesy for its Caregivers.
“I actively listen to patient concerns and validate their feelings. I understand that waiting is frustrating,” Rose said. “I take the time to explain procedures and involve patients in their care, ensuring they feel comfortable and informed.”
Rose’s dedication to care extends beyond the hospital to her family of four. They enjoy playing games, competing in sports, and spending time outdoors. She works hard and plays hard, giving 100% to her family and community.
“It’s not just about providing care—it’s about being a trusted part of the community,” Rose said. “Whether it’s a neighbor, friend, or new patient, everyone in our ED feels a responsibility to give back. We strive to treat every patient like family.”
