Chamberlain Alumna Named One of Northeast Florida’s Great Nurses

No matter the profession, everyone strives to be the best they can be in their work. And nurses are no different. Which is why Kristen Colindres, BSN, RN, CGRN was thrilled to be recognized as one of The Great 100 Nurses of Northeast Florida, an honor granted by the non-profit organization of the same name.

“To be recognized by my colleagues is an incredibly huge honor,” said Colindres. “I think nurses are shy when it comes to accolades like this. Providing great care is what we naturally aim for, so it’s a great honor to receive.”

A 2012 graduate of Chamberlain’s Jacksonville, FL campus, Colindres was nominated for the honor by a colleague at her work. “Just knowing that a colleague felt this strongly about me made me feel good to begin with,” said Colindres.

As a next step in the nomination process, Colindres was asked to write an essay on what makes a great nurse.

“I just thought about and reflected on something as simple as taking the time, even just five minutes, to sit with a patient and explain a procedure or test results with them. Building trusting relationships with patients is so important. I don’t ever want to take it for granted. We have to be an advocate for the patient.”

Colindres also reflected on the important of staying involved in continued education and her own efforts to stay on top of new evidence-based research in nursing.

“Chamberlain definitely helped mold me into the nurse that I am today. Not only did they provide the knowledge and skills to do the job, but they gave me that passion to keep learning. I also found confidence to face any situation.” Colindres recalls her professors, clinical experience and time in the SIMCARE™ CENTER as helping to prepare her the most.

Colindres currently works as a procedural nurse, and is certified in gastroenterology. Heading into the Great 100 Nurses Gala where she and her fellow nurses will be honored, she said she’s looking forward to it. “I’m really excited. I can’t wait to meet all the other great nurses I share this honor with.”