In spotlight: Nurse mom and home health superstar Nela Boskovic-Lucovic: From Montenegro to a lifesaving mission

Today, we have the pleasure of hearing from White Glove Placement home health nurse, Nela Boskovic-Lukovic. Nela set her goals, achieved them, and is admired by her colleagues. We are definitely among her fans! Let’s give a warm welcome to Nurse Nela! Now, to start, can you share a bit about your background and journey in nursing?

Nela: I immigrated to the US from Montenegro in 2004 with a dream of making a wonderful life happen in the country. Coming here meant leaving my family, friends, and everything familiar behind. Surprisingly, I acclimated to the New York culture fairly smoothly. I learned the English language while taking college classes, and soon after, I became a nurse, an opportunity I have greatly appreciated in this country. I’ve been a nurse for six years now, and I’m so happy I did it. Several friends and family members have followed my example and pursued nursing, including my 18-year-old son. He’s currently enrolled in an RN program with plans to become a CRNA.

Did your son need encouragement for his career choice? Did you decide for him?

Nela: Not at all, it’s his life, and it was his choice entirely. He was always nauseous about medical stuff, and initially, he wanted to go for a business degree. But somewhere along the way, he changed his mind and is now deeply engaged in his nursing studies, and I am proud of how well he’s doing. I did, however, encourage him to go after an advanced nursing degree, based on my personal experience, and I would advise that to anyone who asks.

Who knows, you may still be colleagues one day! What do you love most about your home health care jobs?

Nela: It’s extremely rewarding to see positive changes in my patients’ well-being. Home health care nurse jobs are all about having meaningful interactions in people’s homes. When patients notice my efforts and thank me, it truly makes my day. Sometimes, patients even stop me on the street to express their gratitude.

Do you see home health jobs in nursing being different from other specialties?

Nela: Home health nurse jobs are unique because I can provide nursing care in the comfort of a patient’s home. Unlike bedside nursing, which involves acute and complex cases, home health RN jobs are way less stressful or physically demanding. It definitely provides me with a better work- life balance.

Whenever we talk to nurses, we always hear only the glossy positive. Between you, me, and the lamppost, what is the most challenging part of working in healthcare?

Nela: Nursing can take an emotional toll, especially when you see patients with terminal illness or dying. It pains me to witness suffering, especially when it involves young children. It’s not easy, but I’ve learned to cope with it. To some degree, you have to find a way to live with these experiences if you want to stay in nursing. When we talk challenges, I can’t forget the COVID pandemic. 2020-2021 stood out as the toughest time for all nurses. It was physically and emotionally exhausting to handle so many patients and deal with so much loss. I remember some nurses breaking down on the floor and quitting the profession.

What keeps you motivated to continue in nursing despite these difficulties?

Nela: My love for nursing keeps me going. I’m passionate about what I do, and I also draw motivation from my son’s journey. Seeing him achieve his goals in nursing inspires me to continue my education and growth in this field.

On a day off or during personal time, what are some things you enjoy doing?

Nela: Lately, I’ve been so focused on my jobs (2!) and being there for my son, helping him through his studies, that I almost forgot what my hobbies are.

I’m lucky to live in Staten Island near the beach, and there’s nothing more relaxing than taking a stroll to calm my mind, especially during the summer. I also love traveling with my son whenever I get the chance; I’ve been to so many beautiful places!

Montenegro holds a special place in my heart as I get to spend quality time with my family. Recently, while traveling to Montenegro, we visited Mykonos in Greece, a stunning island surrounded by beautiful beaches, with a unique Mediterranean culture and cuisine.