Well-being of sexually abused children drive nurse practitioner’s work
Ashley Haynes Non-Physician
› What do you do for relaxation:
This is one area that could use some work! Spending time with my family and even time alone in complete silence are two ways that help me cope with the traumatic personal stories we hear daily.
› What led you to come a medical professional:
God created me to be a fixer and a helper, which are obviously helpful traits for a nurse. I always try to put others before myself — helping and doing things for others is what I live for.
› If you could choose another profession, what would it be and why:
I have always wanted to be a nurse, but I think I’d be a party planner if nursing didn’t work out for me. I love planning my two girls’ birthday parties each year and at this point, they expect me to go all out! Making them fell extra special and love with each new year of their life bring me great joy.
Working with injured or ill children takes a special kind of nurse. Working with children who have suffered the unthinkable trauma of sexual abuse takes the nurses’ pledge to “devote myself to the welfare of those committed to my care” to another level.
As a pediatric sexual assault nurse practitioner at the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC), Ashley Haynes embodies the commitment expressed in that Florence Nightingale pledge. For victims of alleged sexual abuse, she is their first advocate, the professional who skillfully and delicately takes them through a thorough, head-to-toe medical examination.
“A listening, believing ear is always important,” she said. “How we show up, our care, concern and commitment can make big difference to these children and their families.”
Haynes’ compassion, her expertise and her resolve to help these vulnerable victims are what prompted Executive Director Kristin Pavlik McCallie to nominate her for this year’s Champion of Health Care honor.
“She supports each child with respect, dignity and insight,” McCallie wrote. “She supports children who come to the CAC because they have been told something is wrong with their bodies and they deserve the abuse they may have endured.” Haynes helps them understand that the abuse isn’t their fault.
“This can be a turning point for children moving from victims to survivors,” McCallie wrote in her nomination letter.
Over the past 11 years, Haynes has performed more than 2,000 child abuse exams. Even still, she says, people remain in denial that sexual abuse happens. But it is: One in 10 children will suffer before they are 18, she said. Abuse crosses all socioeconomic and demographic boundaries.
“I want to be their bright spot, part of their healing,” she said. “God put me where I was meant to be. I have no intention of doing anything else.”