MEET LINDSAY NIKKEL, RN
about the recovery room
I graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Manitoba in 2006 and began my career working in remote and northern Manitoba, where I developed a strong foundation in adaptable, resourceful nursing in complex environments.
I went on to complete the Intensive Care Nursing Program through the University of Manitoba in 2009 and spent several years working in medical-surgical ICU, followed by oncology nursing where I administered chemotherapy and built deeply meaningful relationships with patients and their families. These experiences shaped my approach to nursing, grounded in both clinical precision and compassionate, human connection.
My Experience
I’m Lindsay Nikkel, a Registered Nurse with over 20 years of diverse clinical experience.
While working in this setting, I recognized a consistent gap in care: patients were being discharged from day surgery into hotels or unfamiliar environments during the most vulnerable early phase of recovery, often feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. The Recovery Room was created in response to that gap - to provide calm, professional nursing support that helps patients feel informed and genuinely cared for as they begin healing beyond the clinic.
In 2020, my family and I relocated to Canmore, where I transitioned into plastic surgery nursing.
My approach is centered around providing calm, professional, and supportive nursing care that helps patients and caregivers feel more informed and reassured throughout the early recovery process.
Patients can expect thoughtful, individualized support that reinforces their surgeon’s post-operative instructions while providing guidance around medications, drains and dressings, mobility, comfort measures, and normal healing expectations. I strive to create a reassuring presence during a vulnerable time, offering clear communication, compassionate care, and practical support without alarm or unnecessary overwhelm.
Recovery after surgery can feel physically and emotionally overwhelming, particularly during the first few days after discharge.
why the recovery room
No two recovery experiences are the same. Care is individualized to each patient’s procedure, recovery environment, support system, and level of comfort.
Patient-Centered Support
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Recovery is deeply personal. The Recovery Room is committed to providing care that feels professional, respectful, private, and tailored to each patient’s comfort and needs.
Discretion & Respect
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Clear, supportive education helps reduce anxiety and build confidence during recovery. My goal is to help patients better understand what to expect, how to care for themselves safely, and when to seek additional medical attention.
Guidance Through Education
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Every patient deserves to feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for during recovery. I believe compassionate care and meaningful human connection are just as important as clinical skill.
Compassion & Human Connection
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With over 20 years of nursing experience, including critical care, oncology, and plastic surgery nursing, care is grounded in both clinical knowledge and thoughtful patient support.
Professional Expertise
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Recovery can feel overwhelming during the first days after surgery. I strive to provide a calm, supportive presence that helps patients and caregivers feel more at ease throughout the recovery process.
Calm, Reassuring Care
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