I am a clinical researcher with a strong commitment to improving pediatric healthcare in underserved populations. Since 2016, I have actively participated in the Hawaii Institutional Development Award (IDeA) Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Clinical Trials (HIPACT).

Within this 18-center network, my role as the KMCWC representative has allowed me to contribute significantly to project development and launch network-wide clinical trials. In addition to my involvement in the network, my passion for research in pediatric clinical outcomes let me to focus on improving treatment for infants and children with bronchiolitis. Along with one of my hospitalist colleagues and an undergraduate student, we embarked on a comprehensive study involving the review of 250 pediatric bronchiolitis cases at KMCWC. By analyzing demographic data and medical histories, we developed an algorithm to determine the safe and effective use of heated high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen on the pediatric ward. Our findings demonstrated that children over 2 months of age can safely be treated with HFNC without transfer to the Pediatric ICU.

Recognizing the critical role of effective communication in patient safety, our hospitalist group implemented the IPASS mnemonic format on our family-centered rounds and in our handoffs between colleagues, enhancing the quality and safety of our rounds and our handoffs. Our efforts have led to a significant reduction in communication-related patient injuries and have been well-received by patients, families, and learners.

I am dedicated to improving pediatric healthcare, particularly for the children of Hawaii.