"My grandfather, the person I look up to most in the world, had a stroke in 2016 just as I was beginning my nursing career," says Kaub, program supervisor of the Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center at Ascension Via Christi St. Francis. "While it was hard to see my grandfather struggle, I see it as a blessing that I experienced stroke care from the patient and caregiver’s perspective."
Kaub says helping educate patients and families about the recovery process is one of the most rewarding aspects of her job.
"Enduring a stroke is very overwhelming, but having someone who takes the time to explain things and prepare you for what lies ahead can make a world of difference," she says, adding that life after a stroke can be challenging for everyone. "I want patients to know that it is more than just OK to ask questions and to seek help in finding the resources they need to improve their quality of life - it is encouraged."
Although new to her role and Wichita, Kaub has cared for stroke patients both in a medical-surgical and intensive care unit setting for seven years.
"Just being in the hospital also can be overwhelming," she says. "That’s why providers need to focus on providing patients and families the most important information, and knowing that it will need to be repeated multiple times to be truly understood."
That requires patience and kindness, which she says she sees daily in her team’s interactions with patients and families and with each other.
"We have an excellent team that is always willing to help," says Kaub. "Missi King, who leads Cardiac Services, has gone out of her way to check in on me and provide me with resources that I need to be successful."
So has James Walker, MD, medical director for the Comprehensive Stroke Center. "He’s an extremely busy guy, but he always makes the time to help and encourage others. I am beyond grateful for both his expertise and his kindness."