Kay W. Ribbel, Nurse Practitioner

Kay Ribbel, Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, began working at Student Health Services at Minnesota State Mankato in May 2024.  Before her role at Student Health Services, she was an adjunct faculty member in the nursing program at MSU.  She received her Bachelor's degree in Science of Nursing from Presentation College and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice from South Dakota State University.  She completed the Nurse Practioner Residency Program through the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences College of Medicine.  Kay worked for Mayo Clinic Health Systems from 2016 to 2024 in the Emergency department.  Kay continues to work in the Urgent Care setting.

Why did you choose to go into college health?

I have a background in Emergency Medicine and recently joined the team at Student Health Services.  I intend to promote a personalized healthcare experience for patients while providing exceptional care.  Managing critical situations has given me a compassionate approach to conducting patient care while performing thoughtful, individualized assessments. It also has provided a platform to evaluate evidence-based practice recommendations and promote the well-being of patients. As a certified nurse practitioner, I am passionate about partnering with patients to guide and empower informed decision-making.

What type of visits do you enjoy the best?

I enjoy illness and injury visits, and I love to do procedures! Health promotion, illness prevention, and counseling about health are also important to me. My experience coordinating quality care, utilizing resources, and advocating for patients has allowed me to help patients reach their healthcare goals.  Throughout my professional experience, my ability to think critically with a patient-centered approach has strengthened my practice. Additionally, it has allowed me to establish meaningful patient relationships. This has given me a solid foundation for my advanced practice role.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job is when a patient expresses gratitude and happiness about the care they have received.

What's unique about the care the patients receive at Student Health Services?

I believe it is important to provide evidence-based care to the patients at Student Health Services. We are able to offer exceptional multidisciplinary care while promoting wellness, enhancing patient education, and preventing illness and injury.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to solve murders on Dateline and 20/20. I am also a self-proclaimed Bravo-holic…iykyk