Charge Nurse
What is your role with Community Healthcare System?
I am a charge nurse in the Emergency Department (ED) at St. Catherine Hospital.
What was your inspiration for getting into healthcare?
As a child, I always aspired to be in the medical field, but what truly inspired me was my older brother. When we were children, he experienced an asthmatic exacerbation while eating and was choking on his food. Ever since then, I went to every follow-up appointment with him and visited him during one of his hospitalizations as a college student. It was then I realized I belonged in the nursing field.
What is a typical day like for you?
I work full time. At the start of my shift, I receive reports from the previous charge nurse and then make assignments accordingly. I make sure all defibrillators are running appropriately, along with checking airway supplies. As a charge nurse, I am responsible for making sure all equipment is functioning and residing at corresponding locations. Charge nurses also are responsible for the workflow of the department, and we address any and all concerns that may arise. As an ED nurse, I assess, initiate IVs, insert Foley catheters and nasogastric tubes, administer medications, and am EKG, PALS, TNCC, ENPC, BLS, ACLS certified to better assist our patients with every need. I also review abnormal cultures and collaborate with our ED physicians for further treatment. I am a stroke champion for the department and relay important information to our team. I also oversee department scheduling.
How long have you been employed here?
I started as an RN Fellow in St. Catherine Hospital’s Emergency Department in 2015 and transitioned to registered nurse in 2017. In total, I have been with St. Catherine Hospital for nine years!
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
One of the biggest changes I have experienced was transitioning from RN Fellow to registered nurse. Another big change was transitioning to permanent charge nurse in the ED.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
During the winter months, I indulge my crafty side. In the summer, I love participating in outdoor activities. I love to spend time with all of my family, especially my husband and children.
What do you enjoy most about working at Community Healthcare System?
The family-like atmosphere at St. Catherine Hospital is like no other. The camaraderie among the Emergency Department physicians and ancillary staff is what I enjoy the most about working for Community Healthcare System. There is no better feeling than coming to work and loving what you do.