Kristine Hippler, NP

Kristine Hippler, NP is a UW Health Kids pediatric nurse practitioner. She cares for children who need specialized support in the hospital, especially those who are admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit. Kristine brings many years of experience to her role and is dedicated to helping young patients and their families through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.

Kristine’s specialty is pediatric cardiac critical care. She works with babies and children who are born with congenital heart defects, which are heart problems present at birth. Many of these children need multiple surgeries or other treatments as they grow. Kristine has focused on this area for her entire nursing career and has deep experience of caring for infants, toddlers, and older children who need close monitoring and advanced care. She is skilled in supporting children through complex treatments and works closely with cardiology, critical care and heart surgery teams to provide coordinated care.

Kristine’s approach to care is strongly centered around the family. She believes it is essential to involve parents in decisions and make sure they understand what is happening with their child. Because families often face emotional stress during a hospital stay, Kristine uses her own life experiences to offer compassion and understanding. She listens closely to parents, values their insight, and helps them feel supported during a time when they may feel overwhelmed. She finds it especially rewarding when former patients return to visit and she can see them enjoying life as healthy children.

Outside of work, Kristine focuses her time on her family. She shares that with three children, her kids are her hobbies right now, and she enjoys being present in their lives. Her family keeps her busy in the best way, and spending time with them brings her joy and balance.

I believe it is essential to involve parents in decisions and make sure they understand what is happening with their child.