Ivy Blog
Staff Spotlight: Kendall Felix, RN, BSN, SCRN
Job title: Nurse Navigator
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
What inspired your career path?
As a child, I had a variety of health issues and had to have multiple surgeries. Being a child and getting wheeled into an OR, I remember being very scared and the nurses were the ones who were holding my hand and talking me through the whole process. From then on, I knew I wanted to be a nurse and when I was a little older, my grandmother was diagnosed with a brain tumor that was inoperable due to its location, which sparked my interest in neurosurgery.
Explain your role in the research being conducted at the Ivy Center.
As a Nurse Navigator, I see patients in the hospital before surgery and help identify people who might be eligible for a Phase 0 clinical trial. This helps to make sure we can give all possible treatment options to patients. I introduce the concept and explain the reasoning as to why the doctors would want to incorporate a Phase 0 clinical trial into a patient’s treatment plan. My job is to support and educate patients on the role research plays in treatment.
What does it mean to you to work for the Ivy Center?
Working for the Ivy Center means so much to me. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be able to help walk patients through a difficult time in their lives and provide support for patients and families.
What’s the culture like at the Ivy Center?
The culture at the Ivy Center is amazing. Everyone is very welcoming, friendly, and supportive of each other.
What is your favorite part about your job?
My favorite part of my job is getting to know the patients and their families by visiting with them, whether it is outpatient, in the clinic, rounding daily on patients in the hospital, or seeing them monthly at a support group.
What do you like to do outside of work? Any hobbies?
Outside of work, I enjoy going to country music concerts and spending time with my family and friends.