Rosilimol Varkey, BSN, RN, GRN, RAC-CT, NICHE

Head Nurse
NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler

Geriatric and dementia patients have intensive needs that can sometimes be a challenge. But for Rosilimol Varkey, caring for this specialized population is the pinnacle of her 28-year nursing career.

“I am passionate about caring for the geriatric population and persons living with dementia,” she declares. “I truly believe we are making a difference in their lives by providing patient-focused care to this vulnerable population.”

“I enjoy being a part of the memory care unit and advocating for them, as we are their eyes and ears when they have impairments,” she continues. “It is so rewarding to be a part of the MCU team and continue to maintain the sense of compassion and empathy towards this vulnerable population. We are part of a person’s development, witnessing an individual strive and excel based on my unit team’s daily effort. I believe we are empowering the team – front line staff, the integrated discharge team, and families – to tackle the challenging transition successfully.”

Varkey has been with NYC Health + Hospitals for 18 years, currently serving as Head Nurse at NYC Health + Hospitals/Coler. She has continued to pursue education and advanced certification, and is currently NICHE-certified and enrolled in a master’s degree program. “The nursing profession is growing,” she notes. “It is important to understand the vision for the nursing profession: to help our health care team to understand the key concepts of providing culturally sensitive care to each individual to improve the health and well-being.”

“Nurse leaders must work in collaboration with all stakeholders to secure the future of nursing and improve the health care industry,” she continues. “Staff empowerment, shared decision and person-directed practice have played an integral role in my career, allowing me to reach this level. I really appreciate my unit team, their efforts and support.”                              

Nominators say she is a true leader, noting, “She leads by example. She is regularly seen talking to members in her team, inspiring and coaching them on preventing stressors and triggers for residents who are challenged by their cognitive deficits. She has in-depth knowledge of the residents.”

Another nominator comments, “She demonstrates leadership, knowledge of patients and residents, and models positive behaviors in turning the culture of memory care unit to be a positive, engaged and high functioning team.”

“Excellent leadership from this Head Nurse has resulted in a huge improvement in quality measure,” states one nominator.

Varkey says her strengths include “kindness, empathy, respect, compassion and caring for patients, their families and my staff,” adding, “My dad inspired me to join this career path. Taking care of others, and putting their needs first, makes me feel so important.”

She says she and her team integrate NYC Health + Hospitals ICARE values into their daily practice. “All of them are important,” she remarks. “They come into play in my daily schedule, helping me make a difference and improve the quality of life for patients and their families.”

Learn more about our Nursing Excellence Award Winners