Carilion Proud: Get to Know Carrie Ratliff

Meet Carrie Ratliff, RN Team Lead with the Infusion Centers at CRMH and Riverside

Tell us a little about yourself—your role, department, and how long you’ve been with Carilion.

I am an RN team lead at the Riverside 1 and CRMH 1 South Infusion Centers, where I work closely with an interdisciplinary team to support patients throughout their care journey. I have been with Carilion for 17 years and have had the opportunity to grow both clinically and as a leader during that time. I was drawn to Carilion because of its reputation for high-quality, patient-centered care, along with its focus on professional growth and collaboration. What continues to inspire me is the sense of purpose in my work, the relationships I build with patients, and the opportunity to work alongside a dedicated team as we help shape the future of cancer care in our community.

Which of Carilion’s values resonates most with you in your daily work, and why?

Compassion resonates most with me in my daily work with both patients and team members. Nursing often means caring for people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Whether it is sitting with a patient who is anxious, listening, or supporting patients and families through difficult decisions, compassion is at the center of what we do. It guides how we care for our patients, support one another, and serve our community.

What does the Carilion Proud theme “Care that Connects Us” mean to you personally?

To me, “Care that Connects Us” means recognizing the human connection in every interaction with patients, families, team members, and the community. It is about listening, being present, and showing empathy. Those moments of connection, even the small ones, help build trust and remind people they are not alone.

Can you share a moment when you felt especially connected to a patient, teammate, or the community through your work?

There have been many meaningful moments throughout my time in both inpatient Oncology and outpatient Infusion. One that stands out is a longtime patient I cared for regularly in the Infusion Center. Over time, our relationship grew to feel like family. A moment I will always remember is sharing with that patient that I named my youngest child after them. It speaks to the lasting impact our patients can have on us.

How do you build or maintain meaningful connections with patients, coworkers, or others you interact with each day?

I focus on active listening, clear communication, and leading with empathy. I believe trust and connection are built over time through consistency, kindness, and being present in each interaction.

In what ways does your role contribute to creating a more connected and supportive environment at Carilion?

As a team lead, I work to support my colleagues, encourage collaboration, and create an environment where team members feel comfortable speaking up and supporting one another. By modeling teamwork and compassion, I aim to help maintain a culture where people feel valued and connected to our shared mission.

What would you say to someone new about how Carilion employees live out “Care that Connects Us”?

I would tell them that connection is part of the everyday work at Carilion. You see it in how teams support one another, how staff care for patients, and how we focus on the whole person. It is a place where people truly care, not just about the work, but about each other and the community we serve.