Author: cfreed

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Inspiring Story of Nereida Solis, Med Surg RN

 Hey Nereida, tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Nereida Solis. I’ve been a nurse for fourteen years, primarily in the medical-surgical field, mainly related to trauma. I’ve learned a lot about it and ventured off into travel nursing. Now, I’m at my third job, which has been exceptional. Working with White Glove has been a great experience; everyone here is so kind and compassionate. I always feel privileged to be a part of this team.

How is life outside nursing?

I came from Venezuela; my mom and my dad are from the Dominican Republic. I grew up in Williamsburg, and I love it here—there’s no way anyone can take me out of Brooklyn; I’m a real Brooklyn girl. My parents and my grandma live on the other side of Brooklyn, just 15 away from my apartment. My mom was a home health aide in her younger years, and nurturing was always so natural for her. She helped me a lot when I made nursing my career, especially financially. I definitely take after my mom in other ways too—she’s older now but looks so young. Age is just a number anyhow. But still, it’s weird when I’m 40 and something, and people are like, “Now, are you crazy! I thought you were in your twenties.”.

Do you have goals where you want to take your career?

Eventually, I want to go back to school. There’s a part of me that wants to be a clinical educator. I’m considering going back for an RN Master’s accelerated program to get my BSN in one shot, but I’m also thinking about securing a staff job at a certain point. I’m still trying to figure out what I really want.

Cliche, but I’ll ask about it anyway. What do you love most about nursing?

I love helping people in their time of need. Anytime I can assist someone, no matter how small the task, it makes me feel good. If they are happy, that’s what matters to me. Nursing has always been rewarding because it requires compassion and empathy. It doesn’t get any more fulfilling than that.

I have so many stories. During COVID, I had a young guy who, despite not being there for COVID, was a trauma patient. He endured a lot of injuries and was hospitalized for an entire year. He had PEG tubes and, over time, started progressing and was finally discharged. We became very close; he always wanted Nurse Solis to support him as he learned to walk and prepare for discharge. We developed a nice rapport. I wished him well upon his discharge and still think about him; he was such a smart kid, and I hope he continues to do well.

Now, any challenges at work?

One challenge for me is working the night shift, which has affected my sleep cycle. It’s tough when I come home and need to sleep; my whole cycle gets thrown off. However, I try to think positively about the little challenges at work because they help me grow. When I go to work, I remind myself that us nurses are there to advocate for our patients. They can’t always speak for themselves, so we take on that role. I’ve never been a night owl, but I transitioned to the nighttime shift to give it a shot. I happen to like it a lot, the experience, but still learning how to balance out my days.

Caffeine is notoriously addictive for night nurses; how is it by you?

Caffeine and I don’t get along. I tried it occasionally, but it didn’t agree with me. I prefer matcha, made from mushrooms, because it’s more natural and holistic without causing jitters. I focus on taking care of my diet and nutrition, ensuring I get what I need without relying on stimulants.

Who are the folks that keep you going?

My family and significant other, along with my nurse friends, keep me going. We have the most fun together—my same group of friends from Beth Israel School of Nursing. We’ve been keeping up for close to twenty years doing paint parties, trips and diffent things together. Much as I love my job, it’s not always easy. It’s such a nice and relatable experience to have friends who get it.

What are your thoughts on the future of nursing and the changes you anticipate in the profession?

As an older nurse, my perspective is shaped by the lack of technology when I first entered the field. There are always pluses and minuses to things, but one concern I have is that technology can sometimes take away from one-on-one patient care. For example, while telehealth has its benefits, being able to see a patient in person allows for a full clinical assessment; you can miss the complete picture during a phone call. It’s important to stay focused on human interactions—we are humans, not robots.

We all know self-care is a must for nurses. What does self-care look like for you?

Self-care is my thing; I’m very spiritual, and I make it a priority. I love spa days, including sauna sessions, massages, and facial treatments. I also take time to wash my hair and enjoy massages. I read a lot of self-awareness literature as well.

I used to work out at the gym and had four different gym memberships because working out is second nature to me. Did I say this e arlier, that before I became a nurse I was a fitness instructor? I would go to a full gym occasionally, but now I have a gym in my building, I usually work out there. I prefer exercising with others, so I enjoy taking classes from time to time.

I also make time for friends by organizing getaways and painting nights with a group of six or seven nurse friends. I love going to shows, especially Broadway performances, and I’m always up for a road trip. My last trip was to Rhode Island, which was so beautiful! I also do a lot of traveling upstate.

Here’s our last one: What advice would you give to someone considering a career in nursing?

I would advise them that the most important attributes are empathy, compassion, and the desire to help others who cannot take care of themselves. It’s crucial to place yourself in their shoes. As long as you possess empathy and compassion, you can be kind. Nursing is a beautiful, rewarding profession, and you will always feel accomplished.

Absolutely agree! It’s been a pleasure to have you join us!

Click here to watch our full 30-year anniversary event->[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Inspiring Story of Natalia Smirnova, Psychiatric Nurse

Describe yourself in three words.

I’m industrial, organized, and caring.

What made you go into healthcare?

When I arrived here as an immigrant from Russia about eighteen years ago, with my husband and seven-year-old son, I had to care for them. Becoming a home attendant was close to home and the easiest way to get started. Since there are patients who speak all languages, this minimizes the language barrier. I was very impressed with the healthcare system; the visiting nurses were dedicated and caring, and everything was organized. I was struck by how easy it was to get prescription medication, which was very different from my home country. I wanted to be part of the healthcare system here, and I graduated as an LPN in 2014 and then with my RN in 2020.

What hurdles did you encounter when you came here, and what kept you going?

It was challenging to adapt to a new language and culture, and I struggled with communication because of the language barrier. Yet I had to survive. My son was young, and I wanted to show him the right path. I knew I wasn’t alone in this; I needed to be responsible. My mother, who immigrated several years before me, was also getting sick, which made me realize I had to be strong. Now, my son is in medical school and wants to become a doctor, and I am so proud.

Tell us about your nursing assignment.

I work in a homeless outreach program in NYC. When I receive assignments, I visit locations provided by 311, where people have reported homeless individuals. I talk to them and offer support, such as placement in hospitals or shelters.

How do you convince them to accept help?

There’s no way to convince them. Most homeless individuals are driven to their state due to mental health conditions, and there’s often no reasoning or explaining. You have to understand how their minds work. I try to grasp their problems and what they want from their lives. I don’t always know why someone might refuse help, but I ask questions and engage with them, trying to convey the potential benefits of accepting assistance. They have their own thoughts and often don’t want to follow the rules. Sometimes, I talk about life situations and remind them about health risks, like stating that they can get sick or catch a cold. I also explain that they are still young and have the chance to improve their lives.

I find that many homeless individuals don’t realize they need help. When we see them on the street, they often refuse assistance. It’s challenging when they lack the energy or motivation to change. However, I feel it’s important to show them that there is help and their lives can become better.

How do you handle the emotional demands of your role?

I manage by taking care of myself—ensuring I get enough sleep, eat well, and not over-stress. I practice meditation and exercise at home. I also listen to music and take walks. It’s important to talk to yourself and stay grounded; it’s easy to lose oneself in this work.

What are your thoughts on the future of nursing and any changes you anticipate in the profession?

I guess we can wait and see how many people enter the field in the future. Technology is significantly changing the industry, and personal development will be important, not just for monetary gain. Let’s remember that nursing is about people, and we need to have strong physical and mental capabilities while maintaining a genuine focus on those we care for.

Nurses are way more than their license- what are some hobbies you like doing in your spare time?

I don’t have spare time as I just finished my schoolwork. I am currently studying for my psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP) qualification and spend my bits of free time with my family and son.

We’re getting nosy:) Do you end up playing psychiatrist with your family?

I am definitely more cautious now that I understand the impact of my actions. I feel a greater responsibility and see how my actions can affect them.

What are your goals once you become an NP?

I want to work in a psychiatric hospital, focusing on helping people with addiction. My aim is to guide young people toward healthier life choices.

Any message for your healthcare peers?

My advice is to be careful with everything we are doing. We are talking about life, about real people. Take a moment to look twice and think before rushing into actions. It’s important to be mindful of each step. As they say, rather safe than sorry.

Wow Natalia! We are speechless. Good luck in all you do!

Click here to watch our full 30 year anniversary event![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_raw_html]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[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row]