Riley Children's Health pediatric nurse at IU Health North helps kids heal

By Zoe Walsh, zwalsh@iuhealth.org, Communications intern for the IU Health Metro Region

Kelsey Martin has built her nursing career in the Riley Children’s Health PICU at IU Health North, where she serves as both a charge nurse and bedside nurse. She’s driven by strong teamwork and the joy of seeing children recover. Despite challenging days, supporting kids and their families keeps her work meaningful.

Dedicated care for children and families starts with compassion and teamwork. At IU Health North Hospital, the Riley Children’s Health Pediatric Intensive Care unit (PICU) is where Kelsey Martin has built her nursing career and her passion for helping children thrive.

Martin first discovered her love for pediatric care while completing clinicals in nursing school. Today, more than two and a half years later, she serves as both a charge nurse and a bedside nurse.

As a charge nurse, Martin helps the unit run smoothly by assigning tasks, managing staffing for shifts as well as keeping track of admitted and discharged patients. On bedside shifts, she provides hands-on care—administering fluids, taking vitals and supporting more critical patient needs.

Martin’s team at IU Health North helps her feel fulfilled in her role.

“Something I observed is just how well everyone works together, how willing everyone is to jump in and help someone out,” she explains.

Martin also loves working with children and their families.

“They're so fun to work with. Some days are challenging, of course, but just being able to see the progression of a kid feeling and looking better and getting back to their normal fun personality, is just a great joy to see,” she says.

Are you ready to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families? Explore nursing careers at IU Health. Visit iuhealth.org/careers.