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"My goal has always been to grow — not only in my knowledge and skills — but also into the kind of healthcare professional patients and coworkers can trust and depend on." 

Congratulations to Kaitlyn McEwen, CST, UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center on earning a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award, which honors team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences.

Clinical Unit Coordinator Leah Pearson, BSN, RN, C-EFM, RNC-NIC, RNC-OB, nominated the surgical technician for her “exceptional dedication, professionalism, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to the patients, families, and fellow team members in the Family Birth Center [FBC].”

‘Always One Step Ahead’

Pearson outlines how McEwen stands out in her attentiveness: “Kaitlyn consistently goes above and beyond her role and is an integral part of our team's success. What sets Kait apart is her remarkable ability to anticipate the needs of both patients and team members before they are even voiced. She is always one step ahead, ensuring care is delivered efficiently, safely, and seamlessly!” 

“It's not uncommon for a nurse to update a patient's cervical exam to five centimeters, and find that Kait already has prepared a delivery table because she recognized that the patient may progress quickly. If a newborn is preparing for discharge, she often already has assembled the circumcision tray before anyone asks.” 

Preparation and Positivity

Hand-in-hand with her ability to anticipate needs is her willingness and ability to then step in and fill them. “Kait is extremely helpful in emergencies and was recently very hands-on during a significant postpartum hemorrhage that resulted in FBC team members having to start a case in the OR. Her familiarity with the instruments, stirrups, etc. made the case go smoothly. 

“Her proactive approach allows nurses and physicians to focus on patient care without interruption. It is rare to ask Kaitlyn for assistance because she has already completed the task. Her exceptional situational awareness, efficiency, and commitment to excellence improve workflow, reduce delays, and contribute to a safer and more positive experience for both patients and team members. 

“Kait's impact extends beyond her daily responsibilities. She is deeply invested in the education and development of her colleagues and actively contributes to strengthening our unit's clinical expertise,” Pearson notes. During Skills Day, she led an educational station focused on emergency cesarean section preparedness. She helped familiarize team members with the process of scrubbing into a surgical case during an emergency scenario, and improving confidence, knowledge, and readiness among team members. "Her willingness to share her expertise reflects her dedication to teamwork and her commitment to ensuring the highest standards of patient care.” 

Behind-the-Scenes Dedication

McEwen’s approach has made a tangible difference to those we serve. “Kaitlyn exemplifies professionalism in every interaction. She is dependable, knowledgeable and consistently demonstrates a calm, positive demeanor, even in high pressure situations. Her colleagues trust her completely, knowing they can rely on her clinical skills, judgment, and support. She fosters a collaborative environment in which every member of the team feels valued and prepared to provide exceptional care.” 

“Most importantly, Kaitlyn's contributions have a direct impact on patient outcomes and experiences. By anticipating needs, maintaining surgical readiness, and ensuring procedures run smoothly — she helps create an environment where patients receive timely, safe, and compassionate care. Her behind-the-scenes work often goes unnoticed by patients, yet it plays a critical role in the quality of care they receive during some of the most important moments of their lives.”

In Her Own Words: 'Incredibly Proud'

A UVA Health team member for 10 years, McEwen responds: “Winning this award means more to me than I can put into words. I’m so excited, honored, and grateful to receive this recognition. What means the most to me is knowing that my coworkers took the time to nominate me and see and appreciate the person I try to be every day.

She adds that the award is a motivator for her to keep working toward her career goals in nuclear medicine: “My goal has always been to grow, not only in my knowledge and skills, but also into the kind of healthcare professional patients and coworkers can trust and depend on. 

“I’m incredibly proud to receive the BEE Award, and I hope to carry the same compassion, teamwork, and dedication that led to this recognition with me throughout the rest of my career,” McEwen concludes. 

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another.

Recipients go above and beyond to support our mission and uplift our teams. Nominate a UVA Health Culpeper, Haymarket, or Prince William Medical Center, or Medical Group team member, for a BEE Award.