“Carol’s
positive impact
on patients with EB is
immeasurable.”
-CALEB DETTMANN,
DIRECTOR OF PATIENT
CARE SERVICES
Carol Schober-Flores Named
‘Magnet Nurse of the Year’
For more than 20 years, Carol Schober-Flores, BSN, RN,
CWS, DAPWCA has taken a multidisciplinary approach
to caring for children with epidermolysis bullosa, or EB.
Patients with this painful disease are known as “buttery
kids,” because their skin and tissues are exquisitely fragile
and susceptible to damage from friction. Normal everyday
bumps and scratches can cause blisters and erosions, which
can result in life-threatening infections. This rare genetic
disorder has no cure and requires lifelong treatment.
From careful and precise dressing changes to promote
healing of their wounds, to research, education and
psychological and psychosocial support, Schober-Flores has
advocated tirelessly for the EB patient population. This work
was recognized when Schober-Flores was named the 2019
National Magnet Nurse of the Year by the American Nurses
Credentialing Center. This international award recognizes
outstanding contributions of clinical nurses to innovation,
consultation, leadership and professional risk-taking.
Schober-Flores is one of only five recipients across the world.
“EB is very intimidating for parents and healthcare providers
who haven’t seen it before,” says Schober-Flores. “Lots of
times people are afraid to handle these children, but these
kids need to be loved and cuddled just like other kids — just
in a gentler way.”
Improving the patient experience for kids around
the world
Not only has Schober-Flores helped improve the patient
experience, she has also improved wound healing outcomes
for kids around the world. Even though her patients
will never be wound-free, Schober-Flores’ research and
education has helped to improve healing times and
minimize rates of infection.
“Seeing patients arrive at the clinic for what could
be a traumatic experience, and turning it into one of
trust, acceptance and patience is inspiring,” says Caleb
Dettmann, Director of Patient Care Services at Children’s
Colorado. “Carol’s positive impact on patients with EB is
immeasurable.”
2019 Nursing Year in Review