Natalie Olenik, Charge Nurse (Neuroscience Critical Care Unit)
What is your role with Powers Health?
I am one of the charge nurses for the Neuroscience Critical Care Unit on the night shift.
What was your inspiration for getting healthcare?
There were a few reasons why I wanted to work in healthcare. Working as a TA for my anatomy professor in college solidified healthcare was the right choice for me. There is room for growth on the job, and nursing, in particular, offers a wide range of specialties to choose from. I also have family members who have been sick and hospitalized for extended periods of time. I saw the impact it makes when you have a dedicated healthcare team. It is a privilege to care for patients, and it’s very rewarding when you make a positive impact in a patient’s life.
What is a typical day like for you?
When I am in charge, the night begins with getting the report. Then, I check the defibrillator and ensure all necessary supplies are on the crash cart. After attending an ICU huddle with the other charge nurses and our supervisor, I prepare report sheets for the next shift. Responding to alerts that arise in the hospital is required during my shift, along with coordinating care with the intensivists during a brain alert or stroke alert. I also go to acute responses as well as codes during my shift and help care for these patients. Assisting with staff needs and issues that arise on my floor are my responsibility also. Our floor typically has patients with strokes, seizures, spinal issues, and sometimes, withdrawal issues. We work with external ventricular drains (EVDs) and lumbar drains as well as care for thrombectomy, craniectomy, craniotomy and Prisma patients.
I have been employed at Community Hospital since October 2022.
What are some of the big changes you have experienced in this position?
I started on the Neuro ICU as a new grad. Originally, I was trained on the day shift during my first three months of orientation and then transitioned to nights. At about nine months, I was precepting new graduates. Shortly after, I was working as a secondary charge nurse. I then transitioned to working as a charge nurse.
What are some of your interests outside of work?
I am a big foodie, so I love trying new restaurants. You can catch me watching football in the fall or NCAA basketball when it is March Madness. During the summer, I love gardening, and I enjoy going to the beach or hanging out on the lake.
What do you enjoy most about working at Powers Health?
I enjoy coming to work at Community Hospital because we truly work as a team on my floor. I also appreciate the support and opportunities that have been given to me at Powers Health to advance my career, which, in turn, have helped make me a better nurse.