Dorothy Laine, RN, a dedicated staff nurse II at the Center for Laser Surgery Department within Kaiser Permanente Union City Medical Offices, exemplifies the pinnacle of patient care. A colleague who nominated her for an award aptly stated, “Dorothy Laine exemplifies what a caring, equitable, extraordinary nurse should be.” This recognition underscores the exceptional contributions Dorothy has made during her remarkable 40-year tenure with Kaiser Permanente.
A Lifelong Calling to Nursing
From a young age, Dorothy felt a strong pull towards nursing. “My parents supported and fostered my interests by exposing me to hospitals, paramedics, and more. I also was born and raised as a Kaiser Permanente member,” Dorothy recounts. This early exposure and personal connection to Kaiser Permanente solidified her ambition to pursue a career in nursing, a path she has passionately followed.
Leading with Empathy and Purpose
Dorothy’s approach to patient care is deeply rooted in empathy and a profound sense of purpose. “I lead with purpose by treating my patients as if they were family,” she explains. This philosophy is evident in her dedicated work with the LGBTQIA+ community over the past eight years. In this role, she provides crucial gender-affirming services and pre-operative laser treatments, guiding patients closer to their authentic selves.
Her nominator highlights the sensitive nature of these services, noting, “Our services are very intimate, vulnerable, and intimidating for patients, but Dorothy always knows how to make each patient feel safe by explaining their care plan, assisting them in contacting the right departments, doctors, and advocating for additional care services.” Dorothy’s ability to create a safe and supportive environment is paramount to the well-being of her patients. She acts as a vital bridge, connecting patients with the appropriate medical professionals and resources within Kaiser Permanente Union City.
Delivering Outstanding Patient Experiences
“I love my patients. I’m dedicated to teaching, advocating, and learning from them,” Dorothy shares, reflecting her commitment to holistic patient care. Her colleague further emphasizes the significance of Dorothy’s role in addressing the mental health needs of her patients: “Our patient demographic faces numerous stressors impacting their mental health. Dorothy has been instrumental in helping many patients connect to vital mental health services.”
Dorothy proactively collaborates with psychologists and social workers, ensuring her patients receive comprehensive support. “She proactively bridges care with psychologists and social workers on behalf of her patients. I’ve also seen her go into our mental health psychology department and obtain the number to the on-call psychology doctor, ensuring her patients receive the care and support they need. Despite her busy schedule, she always prioritizes her patients’ and ensures they are well cared for.” This proactive approach showcases her dedication to patient well-being beyond the immediate medical procedure.
Throughout her distinguished career at Kaiser Permanente, Dorothy has served in various demanding roles, including the neurological intensive care unit, emergency services, urgent care, dermatology, and now laser dermatology. This diverse experience has enriched her skills and broadened her understanding of patient needs across different medical specialties within Kaiser Permanente.
“She is a committed lifelong learner, emphasizing that she gains insights from her patients every day. Dorothy’s top priority is to ensure that everyone feels secure and well-cared for under her watch,” her nominator concludes. Dorothy Laine’s unwavering commitment to her patients and her pursuit of excellence truly embody the values of Kaiser Union City Doctors and the entire Kaiser Permanente healthcare system. Her dedication makes her an invaluable asset to the Kaiser Permanente Union City team and a beacon of compassionate care for all.
