“It’s not all butterflies and rainbows”

By Maureen Gilmer, Riley Children’s Health senior writer, mgilmer1@iuhealth.org

Abby Huntsman might describe herself as boring, but the team she works with on the PICU has other descriptors for her: exceptional, genuine, dedicated, compassionate.

Huntsman, who joined the PICU as a nurse 2½ years ago, previously worked as a tech at IU Health Methodist Hospital and on the burn unit at Riley Hospital for Children.

For her, though, the pediatric intensive care unit is home.

“I knew I wanted to work with kids, and I knew I wanted a challenge, so I felt like this was the perfect spot,” she said. “And now I can’t imagine going to a different unit. Kids are just so innocent and untainted. You can have fun with them.”

Of course, working in intensive care means a lot of hard days and nights.

“It’s not all butterflies and rainbows,” Huntsman said. “I’ve definitely shed some tears, but there’s also laughter. The PICU is just so rewarding.”

A reward she did not expect recently was a DAISY award for exceptional clinical skills and compassionate care. Huntsman was nominated by a team member who chose not to reveal their name, but the nomination speaks for itself.

“I have had the privilege of working with Abby on several different occasions to care for the same patient, and I am always in awe of her compassion, genuineness and nursing practice. Her commitment to patient care is unwavering and consistently exceeds expectations, and the PICU is lucky to have her.”

Huntsman approaches each patient in her care with compassion, professionalism and a deep sense of responsibility, her co-workers say, creating a positive and supportive environment for patients, families and colleagues.

Huntsman, who grew up on the Southside of Indianapolis with five brothers, will be working on planning a wedding with her fiancé, Exander, soon. Meanwhile, she helps take care of their three dogs and loves going to the gym, power lifting, reading thrillers and attending music festivals.

To anyone out there considering a career in nursing, she offers this: “It’s a very challenging job, but also very rewarding. Having those experiences just makes you stronger. I take pride in what I do.”

Nominate a nurse who exemplifies excellent clinical skills and compassionate care here. https://www.rileychildrens.org/form/riley-daisy-award

Photos submitted and by Mike Dickbernd, IU Health visual journalist, mdickbernd@iuhealth.org