Uniting for excellence: how the High Acuity Unit team fosters a culture of success

We recently caught up with Karmjoth Kang-Grewal, who chose to pursue a career in nursing due to a profound passion for science, particularly biology, and a genuine desire to assist and support others. The intersection of these two interests naturally directed Karmjoth towards her current role as a Registered Nurse in the HAU at LGH. 

In early 2023, Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) opened the new High Acuity Unit (HAU) at Lions Gate Hospital (LGH), strategically situated next to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). This helps bring all inpatient critical care services together on one floor, ensuring patients benefit from specialized care teams. 

With 12 individual patient rooms, the HAU provides a new level of care between the one-on-one care of the ICU and a general acute ward. Equipped with the latest technology for vital-signs monitoring and high acuity care, the unit prioritizes patient comfort and staff safety with built-in patient lifts and convenient care cubbies housing mobile workstations for efficient monitoring by nurses.  

As a valuable team member since June of 2021, Karmjoth’s nursing journey has been dynamic. After completing her BScN program in Northern, BC she returned to her roots in the Lower Mainland, eager to start her career with VCH. 

Beginning at LGH on 7East (Neurosciences), Karmjoth gained invaluable experience that laid the groundwork for her success. Encouraged by supportive colleagues, she embarked on the employer-sponsored High Acuity training program offered to registered nurses at BCIT, enhancing her skills and knowledge. 

Reflecting on her growth, Karmjoth shares, “Through this program, I expanded on knowledge I already knew, filled in gaps that I didn’t know existed, and learned new concepts and skills that have helped me become the nurse I am today. Even after a year on the HAU, I still learn new things every day.”   

In Karmjoth's work routine, a structured approach shapes her daily activities. She starts her day with a report on one or two assigned patients and then formulates a comprehensive game plan, which includes tasks for patient care and considerations for unit activities. Then continuing with safety checks, assessments, and the administration of initial medications, ensuring immediate patient needs are met. 

Collaboration is key as Karmjoth engages with morning huddles with her team, discussing patient cases and formulating care plans. Rounds with the HAU doctor offer opportunities for detailed discussions on patient conditions and treatments, followed by thorough patient reassessments. 

Afternoons are marked by educational sessions, providing continuous learning opportunities amidst the fast-paced HAU environment. As the day winds down, another round of patient reassessment concludes Karmjoth's dynamic day in healthcare.  

“One of the best parts of working on the HAU is how team-based our care is,” says Karmjoth. “It is so easy to approach every team member, from our pharmacists to our dietician, to our rehab teams. I also love how easy it is to get in touch with the doctor; they’re nearly always available to answer any questions or address any concerns we have.” 

Karmjoth expresses a profound appreciation for the exceptional colleagues who contribute to the positive work environment. “Having colleagues that can help you shift priorities and help you reach the goals you set for the day is key, and I am grateful to have people like that working beside me.” 

Reflecting on her experiences, Karmjoth praises her manager's understanding and engagement, which contribute to a supportive work environment.  “He makes an effort to check in with us to see how the shift went and any concerns we have that are within his control,”  

Another supportive team member is the HAU’s Patient Care Coordinator (PCC), whom Karmjoth regards as one of the most industrious, empathetic, and approachable individuals she has worked with. “She’ll sacrifice her own time to make our shifts easier when she can,” says Karmjoth. “She isn’t afraid of scrubbing up and joining us at the bedside when things get rough. She’s an amazing person, to say the least!” 

Equally commendable is the Clinical Nurse Educator (CNE) on the team. “Approachable, knowledgeable, and exceptionally kind, she creates an environment that fosters open communication. She’s helped me navigate beyond my practice learning goals and truly helped me as an individual. I am so lucky to work with a great group of leaders and colleagues! “ 

Explore our current opportunities for registered nurses or learn more about our paid training opportunities for specialty nursing.

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