Long Journey Home

Working at Memorial Hospital has been one of the most rewarding and enlightening experiences I have ever had as a health care provider. I was initially employed here in 2005 as a nursing assistant in the ICU. During this time, I learned how to appreciate exactly what a health care provider’s job entailed and how rewarding it could be to save lives for a living. As this was my first health care job, I was apprehensive, filled with doubt and scared of hurting patients. However, this uneasiness did not last long, as I was placed under the supervision of a fantastic preceptor who provided me with an orientation second to none.

This single process is what I feel Beacon does better than any other health care system. In providing a solid foundation for which an individual can grow autonomously within their scope of practice while at the same time providing support when needed, Memorial Hospital staff demonstrated that they cared for me not only as an individual but as a professional. This in my mind is the single most important influence an organization can have on a new employee trying to find their way. This point was reinforced as I graduated nursing school and started as a nurse in the same ICU. The orientation process, along with the nursing staff and leadership, shaped me into the nurse I am today.

In 2011, I left Memorial to see the country and work as a travel nurse. Not only did this decision allow me to experience other health care facilities, it tested my strength as a nurse and my ability to be independent within the profession. While this was a difficult time, I stayed strong by utilizing those core principles that were instilled in me during my time at Memorial. Without that guidance, experience and support, I would not have been as successful.

I have finished graduate school and returned to Memorial. As I work my way through orientation, I can’t help but think back to my previous experience here and what I learned during that time. While I had other career opportunities, I chose to come back to Memorial as a direct result of these experiences and extraordinary individuals who unknowingly assisted my transition into a successful nurse.

The following first-person account was provided by the Story Catchers e.crew team. Story Catchers wants to inspire Beacon associates by capturing and sharing their stories for everyone to enjoy. Stories can either be your own testimony or a special interaction you’ve had with a patient or guest. Do you have a story to share that might inspire others? Email beaconstorycatcher@beaconhealthsystem.org.

Story provided by: Dusten Roe R.N., MSN, CCRN