Meet Kelly Russell, MSN, RN, NPD-BC, CMSRN, the nursing excellence coordinator within the UofL Health – Office of Professional Practice at UofL Health – UofL Hospital. She became a team member in January 2018 and initially worked as the mixed acuity educator until she transitioned into her current role in October 2019.
Kelly’s role is exceptionally important as UofL Health – UofL Hospital navigates its journey to Magnet designation, a significant achievement that is recognized internationally as a symbol of nursing as leaders in change and health care innovation. She works to collect and analyze data related to nurse sensitive quality indicators, manage organizational Magnet education components and facilitate the Magnet document writing process. Kelly also oversees the recognition of nursing excellence programs through decision-making mentoring and excellence recognition awards, such as BEE and DAISY Awards.
When asked what she loves about UofL Health, Kelly will tell you it’s the pride her team members take in their work.
“The first time I walked into UofL Hospital, I felt the confidence and ownership of patient care and nursing excellence in everyone that I met,” Kelly said. “I knew that the performance expectations were high and that I felt inspired to elevate my practice to meet the standards of staff and patients.”
As the nursing excellence coordinator, she serves as a resource to other system facilities looking to implement or improve their shared decision-making structures. Kelly believes shared governance is a critical element to supporting the nursing ownership of patient outcomes.
Her ultimate goal for the organization is to achieve the Magnet designation they have worked so diligently for.
“While this process takes a considerable amount of planning, resources and effort, at the end of the day, our team members are worth it,” Kelly said. “They are the reason our organization shines and Magnet recognized organizations help showcase the amazing work of their nursing staff and interdisciplinary team members.”
She lives out the UofL Health mission by ensuring our innovative, compassionate, patient-centered care is showcased and celebrated each day.
Something you may not know about Kelly is she is from St. Louis, Mo. and loves all things sports. Whether it’s hockey, baseball or football, she loves cheering from the sidelines.
Kelly admires the wisdom of Brené Brown and is currently reading her book “Dare to Lead” with the Office of Professional Practice lunch and leadership professional development club. Each day she reminds herself of her favorite Brené Brown quote, “There is no innovation and creativity without failure.”
Despite the pushback from friends and family, Kelly considers herself reality TV obsessed. Below Deck – Mediterranean and Keeping Up with the Kardashians are a few of her all-time favorites.
Tacos with chips and queso are something Kelly could eat every day. But when it comes to breakfast, all she’s ordering is the Kalamity Katie’s Border Benedict from Wild Eggs.
Next time you catch Kelly in the office, be sure to say “hello” and ask her about what podcast she’s listening to. She would love to get to know you!
