Getting to Know a BHC Nurse

Kathy Caviness, BSN, RN

Neurosurgery

I’m originally from New Florence, Mo., a small town that really taught me the value of community. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. My family is my biggest support system. I married my wonderful husband Tyler in 2019, and we have two daughters — Octavia, 5, and Payton, 3. They keep us on our toes, and their energy and curiosity remind me every day why I love what I do.

Why did you get into the health care field? I’ve always wanted to provide hands-on care and be challenged every day, but I was initially hesitant because I didn’t think I was cut out for the clinical aspects like dealing with blood. But my college advisor encouraged me to meet with the nursing school, and I gained a whole new perspective on the diversity of the nursing field. It was then that I discovered the many different ways I could contribute to patient care. Here I am, 8 years later, loving every moment of it!

What interested you in your particular specialty? What initially drew me to this role was the opportunity to work in neurosurgery. I was excited about handling referrals and knew it would give me valuable insight into the complexities of neurosurgery. Plus, I had the chance to work alongside an incredible nurse practitioner who is a fantastic teacher and a highly skilled provider. That mentorship and the chance to learn from someone so experienced made this role especially appealing.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? The most rewarding part of my job is seeing patients come full circle. Often, they start in the clinic with the nurse practitioner (NP), then move on to meet with one of the surgeons when surgery is needed. After the procedure, many return for their post-op appointment with the NP. It’s amazing to hear patients report an improved quality of life. To me, that’s absolutely priceless.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job? The most challenging aspect of my job as a referral nurse is managing the urgency in getting every patient in to be seen quickly, especially knowing they’re in pain or have just received a life-changing diagnosis. It’s tough to see people in difficult moments, but it motivates me to do everything I can to get them the care they need as quickly as possible.

What has changed in your field since you started practicing? I feel like everything has shifted since the pandemic. Patients are now more involved in their own care. They come prepared with insightful questions and have the ability to research information before they even step into the office. I think it’s wonderful to see patients take on more autonomy in their healthcare. It’s empowering and leads to better collaboration between patients and providers.

What do you see changing in the next 5 to 10 years? I think social media has given the world the ability to see more than we ever have before. We are able to challenge ourselves, think outside the box, collaborate, and create positive change. Looking ahead, I expect to see greater advancements in treating and curing diseases as people can collaborate globally with ease.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I love spending time with my family, and we’re always looking for new adventures. Whether it’s playing outside, taking road trips, watching live sports, trying new restaurants, or discovering new parks and playgrounds, we’re always up for something exciting. Our daughters love to dance and play t-ball, so we stay busy cheering them on and making memories together.

What advice would you give someone looking to become a nurse? Be open to change. Challenge yourself. Find joy in your passion. Establish a work-life balance. Practice self-love. Never forget that the person you’re taking care of is someone else’s whole world.