Night Shift Nurse Christy Fliss Recognized for Kindness
Long-term care nurse Christy Fliss is a night owl serving residents in Canby, Minnesota, after dark.
“It’s fulfilling being that person to light them up. Make them feel good,” says Fliss, who’s coming up on nine years at Sanford Health Sylvan Court.
The single mom of three usually is a charge nurse on the night shift. And a remarkable one at that.
“As an administrator, we can get calls any time of the day, any time of the night,” Jason Anderson says. “When I know Christy’s on, I just have a sense of calmness. I know everything’s going to be OK. I know everything is going to be taken care of. She just is thorough in her job.”
The DAISY Award and Nurse of the Week
It’s the attention to detail, willingness to help others, and Fliss’ kindness why teammates surprised her with The DAISY Award For Extraordinary Nurses.
“It was awesome. It made me feel great. I’m just so glad that they all think that way of me. Makes me feel good,” Fliss says. “I never want to be that nurse that somebody’s scared of or doesn’t feel comfortable coming and asking questions to.”
Anderson says he’d love to replicate her and the families, residents, and staff. “They appreciate Christy so much.”
Daily Nurse proudly honors Christy Fliss as our Nurse of the Week.
‘Before Anything, Be Kind’
What’s Fliss’ secret to nursing excellence? The former CNA turned LPN treats others like family.
“It’s rewarding knowing that you’re that comfort to the residents when they need it the most,” says Fliss.
“The other night, I was in the room with a 103-year-old, and something silly had happened, and she laughed so hard. I have never heard her laugh like that. It was the greatest thing. It was just like hearing about your kids. That genuine laugh. Just moments like that, the residents make it the best job.”
Showing pride in her work, Fliss hopes to lead by example for years.
“I always want to be what I want my kids to be. I want them to look up to me and be like, ‘Oh, Mom was always really good at that and she always tried her best.’ I always tell them before anything, be kind,” says Fliss.
Fliss hopes “everybody feels comfortable around me and knows they can count on me.”
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