Get to Know the Leader: Kristen Burrell

Meet Kristen, one of the incredible nurse leaders helping drive innovation, teamwork, and compassionate care at Henry Ford Health.

Her journey:

Kristen began her nursing career in 2018 as a Pre-op/PACU RN extern before transitioning to a Clinical Decision Unit. She joined Henry Ford Health in 2019, starting in the Emergency Department and later finding her passion in the Cardiac Cath Lab.“I love working in the Cath Lab because I’m constantly learning new aspects of the heart and all the amazing ways we can help people,” she shares. “I never planned to be a manager, but in 2023, I saw a need — and knew I could help rebuild and strengthen our Cath Lab culture.”

Her role today:

As Nurse Manager for the Cardiac Cath and EP Labs, she oversees daily operations, coordinates with teams across the OR, CVICU, Structural Heart Program, and ED, manages 26 direct reports, and ensures patients receive seamless, high-quality cardiac care.

Why she loves Henry Ford Health:

“My favorite thing about working at Henry Ford is the people — this hospital feels like one big family. I live in this community, and it fills me with pride to serve the same neighbors I see every day. I love knowing that even a portion of my efforts helps someone who needs it.”

On our culture:

“Our culture at Henry Ford is community — from the patients we serve in Macomb County and beyond, to the teams who take care of each other every day.”

What surprised her most:

“How large and loyal our patient community is! Working in the ER showed me that people come from all over, not just because we’re close, but because they trust and prefer Henry Ford Health. That’s something special.”

Fun facts:

• She’s a birth doula

• She was born in Alaska!