Celebrating Canadian Intensive Care Week

As we mark Canadian Intensive Care Week, we recognize the nurses and staff who provide specialized care for some of our most critically-ill patients and support their families through challenging moments.

Vanessa Hender and Kiera Hillrud are among the newest members of Saskatchewan's critical care teams, having recently completed the Critical Care Nursing Program. Drawn to the opportunity to care for critically- ill patients and make a meaningful difference in their recovery, both nurses have embraced the challenges and rewards of critical care nursing.

"It's very rewarding to see patients and families reunited and knowing that we were there every step of the way," Hender said.  

"It's not just responding to emergencies, said Hillrud. "It's staying ahead of them and trying to stop the deterioration before it starts.”

Beyond the clinical expertise required in critical care, both nurses emphasize the importance of building trust with families, providing updates and being a calm, compassionate presence during difficult times.

Canadian Intensive Care Week is Oct. 19 to 25. We thank all critical care nurses and staff for the expertise, dedication and compassion they bring to patient care every day.