Kayla Sims, FNP-C

Kayla Sims, FNP-C, is an Emergency Care provider at Amberwell Hiawatha. Kayla came to Hiawatha with a background in critical care nursing. She brings strong clinical skills, attention to detail, and a steady approach in fast-paced situations.

On choosing Amberwell
Kayla first came to Amberwell as a travel nurse and quickly found a sense of belonging. After working in larger cities, she was drawn to the close-knit community and supportive environment she found in Hiawatha. The sense of connection made a lasting impression on her and played a key role in her decision to continue her work in Hiawatha.

On choosing to become a family nurse practitioner
Kayla’s experience as a nurse inspired her to expand her role in patient care. She wanted to take a more active part in clinical decision-making and gain a deeper understanding of each patient’s overall health.

“I loved being a nurse,” she said, “but I wanted to be more involved in the decision-making and understand the full clinical picture.”

Her transition to a nurse practitioner role allowed her to build on her nursing foundation while taking a more comprehensive approach to care.

Emergency medicine became a natural fit. With her background in critical care, she values the pace and problem-solving involved in identifying and treating the wide range of conditions she encounters in the ER.

On patient experience
Kayla focuses on listening carefully and tailoring care to each individual. Her nursing background shaped her ability to assess patients thoroughly and understand their concerns.

She considers not only immediate symptoms, but also medical history and other factors that may impact a patient’s health or access to care.

“I really try to listen to my patients and meet them where they are,” she said.

About Kayla
Outside work, Kayla enjoys helping on the farm and caring for her various backyard animals. Despite being from a much larger city, she appreciates the strong sense of close-knit community she has found in Northeast Kansas. She truly feels at home in this area.