Celebrating Compassionate Care: Cassidy Abkes Named Nurse of the Year 2024

IntellaTriage Honors 2024 Nurse of the Year: Cassidy Abkes, RN

In an inspiring announcement from IntellaTriage, the leader in after-hours nurse-first triage solutions, Cassidy Abkes has been awarded the title of Nurse of the Year for 2024. This recognition, bestowed upon her for her exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to patient care, exemplifies the company’s mission to empower nurses and enhance the care experience for patients nationwide.

Cassidy, who is a skilled and compassionate hospice nurse, began her healthcare journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) before advancing her qualifications first to a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and eventually earning her Registered Nurse (RN) designation in 2016. It was during this time that she discovered her profound passion for hospice care, a field where care and empathy are paramount. Over the past three years at IntellaTriage, she has established herself as an integral member of the triage team, providing vital support to patients and their families during some of life's most challenging moments.

Within the span of just 2024, Cassidy has managed to deliver after-hours triage care to over 4,000 individuals and families across more than 30 states. Her ability to provide high-quality, compassionate support during times of need—particularly in hospice care—is noteworthy. The triage experience she offers is crucial, as families often require assistance in the middle of the night. Cassidy has made a significant impact, ensuring that those in need receive the support and reassurance they deserve during difficult hours.

The Nurse of the Year award is a prestigious accolade that recognizes the triage nurse who most exemplifies the core values and mission of IntellaTriage. Each January, CEO Daniel Reese selects the recipient from the previous year's standout employees. Cassidy's recognition is accompanied by an exciting four-day, all-expenses-paid trip for two to Marco Island, Florida, where she chose to celebrate with her close friend—who played a pivotal role in inspiring her nursing career.

The trip included memorable activities full of relaxation and adventure, such as beach walks, a swim with dolphins in Key Largo, an exhilarating airboat ride through the Everglades, and a sumptuous sushi dinner that even impressed the restaurant staff. Reflecting on her experience in hospice care, Cassidy noted, "In hospice, you're walking with people and their families through one of the most sacred times in life. It's an honor to support them during such profound moments."

Daniel Reese, CEO of IntellaTriage, praised Cassidy for her exemplary qualities as a nurse: "Even more than her incredible performance metrics, Cassidy is a tremendous nurse and a leader on her team. She consistently exemplifies the values of empathy, compassion, and clinical excellence. Nurses like Cassidy are at the heart of our mission to improve the lives of both patients and nurses. We're incredibly proud to have her on our team."

When questioned about her motivation to pursue nursing, Cassidy expressed, "Helping people. That's it. And knowing this team has your back—that makes all the difference." As Cassidy mentions, being a hospice nurse requires a special dedication to support families traversing some of the most sacred times in their lives. Her heartfelt commitment and exceptional service truly embody what the Nurse of the Year award represents.

At IntellaTriage, the Nurse of the Year award goes beyond merely recognizing performance metrics; it celebrates nurses who create real, positive impacts on the lives of patients and their families. Cassidy Abkes is a shining example of what it means to lead with compassion, skill, and dedication in the nursing field.

Founded in 2008, IntellaTriage delivers 24/7 nurse-first triage care across the United States. By leveraging the largest network of licensed remote nurses in the post-acute care sector, the organization alleviates the burden on frontline clinicians, reducing burnout and turnover while ensuring that patients receive the exceptional care they require. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, IntellaTriage remains committed to enhancing the patient and nurse experience alike, aiming for continued growth and higher standards in care delivery.