Inspired by this year’s theme of “our nurses, our future”, we asked these nurses why they chose the profession, what continues to inspire them and what advice they would have for someone considering a career in nursing.
Marina came to nursing later in life. After a clinical placement with a nurse practitioner, she knew she wanted to pursue that unique blend of medicine and nursing as her career. She became a nurse in 2009 and worked primarily in the ER and has been a nurse practitioner since 2017.
“I don't regret starting later in life,” she says. “I think it afforded me a different and a wiser perspective than I would have had otherwise.”
Marina is humbled by the opportunity to walk beside others in their journey, being there for their happy times and sometimes for tragic or unsettling experiences. “Nursing has taught me humility, compassion, advocacy and gratitude to be a part of the other's lived experience. This role is truly a privilege.”
As for advice for someone considering a career in nursing, Marina has this to share. “Be aware this isn't just a job; it is a calling. Being a nurse not only contributes to your identity but makes you realize you are part of a purpose and meaning beyond yourself.”
Seeing how the nurses treated a family member many years ago led Lynn to a career in nursing. “I saw first-hand how compassionate and selfless the nurses were, and the difference they made not only in patients’ lives, but in the lives of their families. I knew I wanted the opportunity to make that kind of difference.”
She’s been making that difference as a nurse for 35 years, the last 15 of which have been spent with the Centre’s Tuberculosis Services. Lynn finds inspiration in her clients and her co-workers. “Outreach nursing is my passion. I feel honored to work with vulnerable populations across the Lower Mainland as I get to see the difference culturally sensitive and compassionate care can make.”
For others considering a career in nursing, Lynn has this advice:
“It’s not always easy but the outcomes and fulfilment make it all worthwhile.”
She treasures the comradery and the life-long friendships with her nursing colleagues.
Kate always loved science and after completing a master’s in it, she found herself working in a genetics lab. She loved science but missed working directly with people. That prompted her to shift gears and pursue a nursing degree.
“I am inspired by nurses who are able to work in relationship with clients to create a better, more culturally safe health-care system for everyone,” says Kate who has worked in public health for her 15-year nursing career.
“I’m also inspired by teams of health-care professionals who work together to braid many types of expertise into furthering best practice and improved health outcomes.”
“Nursing is a rewarding career as you can walk alongside people in their health journey and provide help in many different ways,” notes Kate. “And there are so many ways to do this, from acute care to public health and from bedside nursing to education and policy.”
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