For more that two decades, nurse practitioner (NP), Lynn Dake, has found a special joy in caring for orthopaedic patients, first as a licensed practical nurse, then as a registered nurse in the hospital setting. Five years ago, she achieved certification and licensure as a nurse practitioner, and chose to continue working with the orthopaedic patient population she loves.
"Orthopaedics is such a rewarding specialty because we are able to help patients feel better and get their lives back. Our patients love us for it, and what could be better than that?" said Lynn.
Lynn started working with SJRI on the orthopaedic floor at TriStar Centennial Medical Center. "SJRI nurse practitioners work 10-hour shifts and are there to address any patient concerns that arise," she said. "We do post-operative rounds with the surgeon, and then round on patients daily to provide any needed care. We participate in daily multidisciplinary meetings with ancillary departments, draft patient care plans and manage discharge planning."
Two years ago, when SJRI opened a satellite office in her hometown where she has resided for the past 30 years, Lynn could not resist the temptation of working closer to home. She supports Dr. Robert Otto in Murfreesboro and in Nashville, and still covers the orthopaedic floor at the hospital when needed. Lynn finds her work both rewarding and challenging.
"Orthopaedics is a fast-paced environment, and it is important to me that I build a solid relationship with my patients," she said. "The SJRI surgeons have built a practice culture that supports that guiding principle."
"Every sector of our organization runs like a well-oiled machine that is focused on doing what is best for the patient and achieving exceptional outcomes," said Lynn. "SJRI is driven by standards and protocols grounded in evidence-based medicine that is led by a team of outstanding, caring surgeons."
"It is so gratifying to be a part of a specialty that is advancing rapidly and improving patient care," she said. "It was not that long ago, total hip replacement patients did not get out of the hospital for 3-5 days after surgery, and now they can go home the same day. It is simply remarkable."
Lynn works in the Murfreesboro office each weekday, providing medical assessments and non-surgical treatment for unexpected orthopaedic accidents, injuries and follow-up care. She is proud of the word she provides, ensuring her patients receive the care they need and a life free from joint pain.