This year for Nurses Week, we’re highlighting the nurses that make Stability Healthcare so special. We’re starting off the week with Kerry, a medical/surgical telemetry nurse, that has over 10 years of travel nursing under her belt. Take it from Kerry, “Take the leap and do it! You won’t be disappointed!”
Read our full interview below:
What has it been like working during the pandemic?
I started out working in a pediatric hospital at the beginning. We hadn’t seen many positive cases affect that population. I then decided to leave my permanent position to travel nurse and help out with the pandemic in the adult population, which was hit much harder, than the kiddos I used to care for.
Once, I relocated to my travel assignment, I had a huge sense of relief and excitement. I was so excited to be in a position to be able to help care for people affected the most by the pandemic.
When I arrived to my hospital in august 2020, I was nervous for the unknown of what I would experience. I had been hearing constant horror stories in the news and social media about hospitals not having supplies and ventilators, that staffing was awful, and patients were dying faster than anyone could process.
Thankfully, that was not my experience! I was welcomed with open arms by a unit of nurses who are kind and supportive. I have never felt so appreciated for all my hard work, as I did when I came to this assignment. We have all worked together to make it thru this year, and I can say it wasn’t as bad as all the horror stories. I truly believe that is only because of the dedication of the amazing nurses who have become my family!
What placements have you had in the past?
I started travel nursing in 2004, and worked throughout the Bay Area and lived every moment! So much that I took a permanent position at a local hospital.
All time favorite placement?
Marian Regional Medical Center
Dream Placement?
Northern California
What is your career history, how did you become a travel nurse?
I am Canadian born and raised. I went to nursing school in Canada and obtained my BSN, at a time when it wasn’t required or frequently obtained. In the early 2000’s, due to the nursing shortage the USA was experiencing, I was recruited to come and work at a hospital in the Bay Area California. I worked as a travel nurse for a few years, and then loved the area so much, I decided to accept a permanent position, and stayed for 13 years! Then when the pandemic hit, I decided it was time for me to leave and travel nurse to help with the pandemic.
What inspired you to become a travel nurse?
See above. As well as, the flexibility it provides, and the value I feel as a travel nurse is much more than when I’ve been on staff permanently. Traveling, allows you to have a life and be a nurse, and you don’t get caught up in unit or manager issues since it’s a short time at any given hospital. However, if you love a place, there is always an option to extend an assignment. It’s truly the best of both worlds. I have had nothing but positive experiences.
What is your nursing specialty?
I started out as a orthopedic/neuro post op nurse for adults. Then spent some time working all areas with pediatrics. I now am working as a medical/surgical telemetry nurse
Favorite hobbies outside of work?
I love the outdoors, talking walks with my dogs and fiancé. I love trying new foods and experiences, but also love to Netflix and chill! Cuddles with my pup are the best way to recover after a long stretch of shifts!
What’s your favorite part of working with Stability?
From the moment I reached out on a possible job opportunity, my recruiter Chad, has been amazing! I have felt so supported and encouraged throughout the entire process and throughout my entire assignment. Anytime, I have had questions, or concerns, the response has always been efficient and knowledgeable. I love working with Stability!
What is something you bring with you (non-nursing related) to every move/placement?
My dog!
Any advice for future travelers?
Take the leap and do it! You won’t be disappointed!
