ALL-WOMEN TEAM OF CHIEF NURSING EXECUTIVES PLAYS PIVOTAL ROLE IN KAISER PERMANENTE ’ S PANDEMIC RESPONSE
When the COVID-19 pandemic began , Kaiser Permanente ’ s Chief Nursing Executives ( CNE ) in Greater Sacramento faced the biggest challenge of their careers . But that was not their only common ground .
All three of them are extraordinary women who drew upon their combined decades of nursing experience to navigate the crisis and help protect the communities served by the region ’ s largest health care provider .
The executives for Kaiser Permanente agree that their backgrounds in bedside nursing gave them a unique perspective to lead frontline teams and help meet patients ’ medical as well as emotional needs .
“ It has been very rewarding to connect with patients , staff , our physician partners , and colleagues with one common purpose . I am honored to hold a position that allows me the opportunity every day to create caring moments for our patients and to leave a positive imprint on their lives ,“ said Linzy Davenport , RN , BSN , MSIHCM , Chief Nursing Executive , Sacramento Medical Center .
Her counterpart at the Ros-
eville Medical Center , Debbie Reitter , DNP , RN , MSN , CNS , NEA-BC , Chief Nursing Executive , was inspired by the dedication of her teams to provide high-quality care under difficult circumstances . “ The strength and perseverance of the human spirit during the COVID-19
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pandemic created many proud moments . I am humbled by the courage , bravery , and compassion the health care teams demonstrated daily to make a difference for our patients and their families ,” she said .
To successfully lead during times of uncertainty , a health care executive must rely on skills developed from years of floor
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Being a CNE through the COVID pandemic has carried the highest level of responsibility I have had in my career , and something I have taken on with pride and respect .
Rachel Wyatt , DNP , RN , MHA , NEA-BC , Chief Nursing Executive , South Sacramento
nursing and trust in the teams on the frontline . “ Being a CNE through the COVID pandemic has carried the highest level of responsibility I have had in my career , and something I have taken on with pride and respect ,” said Rachel Wyatt , DNP , RN , MHA , NEA-BC , Chief Nursing Executive , South Sacramento Medical Center . “ Given we were in an unprecedented situation , we did not always have answers when we needed them . But our teams have stepped up to the challenge every day since our first COVID patients arrived . I have never been prouder to lead this phenomenal team .” Time after time throughout the organization ’ s 80-year history , nurses have met crises with skill , compassion , and courage . Kaiser Permanente nurses have been on the front lines saving lives — led by extraordinary women such as the Chief Nursing Executives in Greater Sacramento .
Linzy Davenport , RN , BSN , MSIHCM , Chief Nursing Executive , Sacramento
Rachel Wyatt , DNP , RN , MHA , NEA-BC , Chief Nursing Executive , South Sacramento
Debbie Reitter , DNP , RN , MSN , CNS , NEA-BC , Chief Nursing Executive , Roseville kp . org
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