PULLMAN, WA – Kyle Jennings, a Certified Nurse Anesthetist who treats patients at Pullman Regional Hospital, was recently honored with a DAISY Award, part of an international recognition program celebrating nurses who go above and beyond to provide compassionate, skillful care.
Kyle’s healthcare journey began as a combat medic for the U.S. Army overseas. When he was sent to the Army’s practical nursing program, he learned about the work of nurse anesthetists and knew instantly that was what he wanted to do. He joined the Pullman Anesthesia team in January 2022 and has been providing pain relief for patients since.
Kyle’s award is from a thankful patient who remarked on his patience, kindness, and steady presence during the birth of her second child. When Kyle was administering her epidural, the patient was immediately astounded by Kyle’s competence and constant reassurance. However, when the patient was told that she needed an emergency C-section, her serenity quickly turned into anxiety.
Kyle and the nursing team quickly moved to prepare for the transition to surgery. He walked alongside her gurney the entire way to the operating room, communicating clearly and calmly and creating a safe and supportive space. “His steady encouragement and constant check-ins made an overwhelming experience feel bearable,” the patient recalled.
The patient safely delivered her daughter by C-section and commented that she would not have gotten through the procedure emotionally or mentally without Kyle’s support. “I am deeply grateful for the role he played in safely delivering our daughter and supporting our family during such a critical moment, and I believe he is incredibly deserving of the DAISY Award,” she said.
Kyle shares that he is humbled and touched by the patient’s kind words. “Normally, I plan on people going to sleep on general anesthetic and not remembering me, but here’s one of those times where we want the mom awake,” he amused. “I’m honored that she would even think to nominate me. It’s a blessing to feel I have a positive influence on the lives of other people.”
To learn more about the DAISY Award, or to nominate a nurse at Pullman Regional Hospital, please visit www.pullmanregional.org/daisy-award.
Media Contact:
Alison Weigley, Director of External Relations
Pullman Regional Hospital
Office: (509) 332-2041 / Cell: (509) 330-0242
alison.weigley@pullmanregional.org
