Active surgical ICU nurse also practices law
If Christine Frank-Scott were an athlete, she might be referred to as a dual threat.
The 2019 Clinical Excellence Award winner is not only a dedicated nurse, she also practices law.
“Christine is a seasoned nurse with 29 years of experience who continues to take on the most difficult and challenging of patient assignments with patience and ease, demonstrating to others how to handle a situation with grace and integrity,” says Kendra Stephens, a nurse who works with Frank-Scott in the surgical intensive care unit at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
“Christine is not only an excellent nurse, but she is also an attorney. Her dedication to education and career advancement is truly admirable. After beginning her career as an attorney, she continued her work as a bedside nurse, exemplifying her continued desire to care for others.
“Because Christine is so engaged and active, she is the nurse that others look to for direction, advice and guidance,” Stephens says.
“Christine is a true role model for bedside nursing, career development and advancement, as well as being an active and participating member of the SICU team. Her expertise, calm demeanor and diplomatic approach have consistently contributed to the success of the unit.”
Tell us a little about yourself.
I started nursing 29 years ago at Ohio State University’s neurosurgery, general surgery intensive care unit, which merged into the current Surgical, Trauma, Burn intensive care unit. I have a law degree from Capital University, a nursing degree from The Ohio State University, a CCRN certification and am a Clinical Ladder 4 nurse.
Where are you from originally and what led you to Ohio State?
I’m originally from Pittsburgh but have lived in Columbus since middle school.
What drew you to the field and the role you play at the medical center?
Nursing had many opportunities with options for practicing. I remained in the surgical intensive care unit, providing critical care nursing while advocating for nurses.
We understand that you’re also an attorney. How did that come about?
After a bad car accident, I practiced as a legal nurse consultant. This led to becoming an attorney in my solo, civil practice. I have also been a court mediator.
What's behind your dedication to education and how has it driven your career advancement?
Education is paramount for advancement in any career and allows options. Your education offers you options and aids in being a well-rounded employee.
Which of the medical center’s core values do you most identify with and why?
I identify with innovation. This started with my quality improvement chair position and advanced to multiple national presentations and development of the Critical Care Online Journal Club.
What’s the most important aspect of your job?
The most important part of my position is helping patients at the most vulnerable time of their lives.
What’s the most challenging part of your job? What’s the most rewarding part?
The most challenging is working with the patient and family to accept and understand complex health issues and end-of-life decisions.
Thank you, Christina, for improving people's lives!